Kompolnas: Family's Provocation Sparked Deadly Clash During Katingan Drug Raid

Palangka Raya (ANTARA) - The Commissioner of the National Police Commission (Kompolnas), Mochammad Choirul Anam, stated that the chaos occurring during a raid on a methamphetamine dealer in Katingan Regency, Central Kalimantan, which resulted in the deaths of three Katingan Police personnel, was triggered by provocative shouting from the drug dealer’s family.

“When the officers arrived, they followed standard operating procedures and presented official assignment letters. However, the family of the target operation instead shouted at the officers, accusing them of being robbers,” said Choirul Anam at the Central Kalimantan Regional Police Headquarters in Palangka Raya on Tuesday.

He noted that the shouting from the methamphetamine dealer’s family incited the arrival of local residents, who are relatives and close kin of the dealer.

Observing the chaotic situation, Katingan Police personnel chose to retreat and fled towards the Katingan River.

“During the chaos, some personnel sustained injuries, forcing them to flee by swimming across the river,” he said.

He added that the personnel swam approximately 500 metres before returning to land. However, upon returning to the shore, the personnel were continued to be pursued by the suspects along with their family and relatives.

“This incident ultimately led to the deaths of three personnel. Based on the investigation results, the victims died on land and were subsequently disposed of in the river,” he stated.

Choirul Anam also explained that based on social investigations in the surrounding area, the perpetrator’s family is known to have a poor social track record and frequently disturbs the peace of the community. Local residents often complain about their intimidating behaviour, such as banging on neighbours’ doors while carrying sharp weapons.

Consequently, following the incident, village officials, traditional leaders, and local residents expressed their appreciation and gratitude for the presence and decisive action of the police.

“We request the Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Central Kalimantan Regional Police to apply the heaviest multi-layered charges against all perpetrators involved, including those who carried out the violence on the ground and the actors who ordered it,” said Choirul Anam.