Journalist Detained for Extorting Traders Using Airsoft Gun

The Baleendah Police Station has detained an individual identified by the initials G, a self-proclaimed journalist, who is suspected of threatening residents and traders using an airsoft gun.

The Chief of Baleendah Police, AKP Hendri Noki Rukmansyah, stated that the suspect was apprehended after residents reported instances of coercion and threats in the Baleendah Market area, Bandung Regency.

“The individual claimed to be a journalist and was extorting members of the public by accusing them of selling illegal liquor (miras), threatening to make the news go viral if his demands were not met,” Hendri said on Thursday, 3 September 2026.

Hendri explained that a kiosk owner, who denied selling illegal alcohol, refused to comply with the suspect’s demands, prompting the suspect to threaten to expose the establishment online.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, 2 September 2026, at approximately 11:00 PM WIB, when the suspect arrived at the location reportedly in a state of intoxication.

Upon conducting a search, police discovered one airsoft gun along with steel BB ammunition, as well as press business cards from three different media outlets.

According to witness testimony, the suspect brandished the weapon and issued threats against the victim during the incident.

“That is correct. During the act of intimidation, witnesses observed the suspect brandishing the airsofter gun,” he stated.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect may have previously engaged in extortion within the Baleendah Police jurisdiction by impersonating a journalist.

Furthermore, police tests revealed that the suspect’s urine tested positive for amphetamine and benzodiazepine (benzo), which formed part of the investigation into the case.

“Based on the examination, the suspect tested positive for amphetamine and Benzo. It was also discovered that he frequently engaged in extortion while claiming to be a journalist in the Baleendah area,” he added.

The suspect is currently being held at the Baleendah Police Station, while one victim has filed a formal report. The authorities are applying Article 448 of Law Number 1 of 2023 (the New Criminal Code), which carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison.