Kodam Reveals Facts Regarding Stray Bullets Hitting Two Residents in Padang, Identical to Soldier Ammunition Used During Training

The XX/Tuanku Imam Bonjol Military Regional Command (Kodam) has released the results of its investigation into the incident involving stray bullets hitting civilians at Padang State University (UNP), finding that the projectiles are identical to the ammunition used by TNI personnel during training on the same day.

“The ammunition found in one of the victims, measuring nine millimetres, is highly identical to the training ammunition used by the 897/Singgalang Infantry Battalion (Yonif),” stated Colonel Taufiq, Head of Kodam XX/Tuanku Imam Bonjol Public Relations, in Padang on Monday.

This announcement follows a thorough investigation conducted by the TNI, which included crime scene processing at both UNP and the Lapai Shooting Range, as well as projectile testing. The investigation concluded that the nine-millimetre projectile originated from a G2 Combat type pistol.

Colonel Taufiq explained that during the training session, personnel from the 89lar 897/Singgalang Battalion utilised two types of weaponry: long-barreled weapons with 5.56mm calibre ammunition, and short-barreled G2 Combat pistols.

Prior to the public announcement, the investigation team conducted a two-day assessment involving both theoretical and field tests to confirm that the projectile embedded in a victim’s leg matched the ammunition used during the exercises.

In response to the incident, Colonel Taufiq confirmed that Kodam XX/Tuanku Imam Bonjol has closed the Lapai Shooting Range indefinitely. The military is also considering relocating the training site, though this will require coordination with relevant authorities, particularly the local government.

Regarding the two victims, Kodam XX has pledged to cover all medical expenses, recovery costs, and trauma healing processes as part of the TNI’s responsibility and commitment to the community.