Kopassus Second Lieutenant Named Suspect in Negligent Firearm Use
An Indonesian Army Special Forces (Kopassus) soldier, Second Lieutenant AG, has been named a suspect by the Military Police after allegedly being negligent in handling a firearm.
The alleged negligence is believed to have caused the death of his colleague, Second Lieutenant Jihad Ahmad Al-Rasyid, at the Kopassus Group 2 weapons store in Kartasura, Sukoharjo Regency, Central Java, on Saturday (24 October).
Kopassus Information Chief Colonel Inf. Indra Mardianto said AG is being held at Denpom IV/4 Surakarta.
“He is being detained at Denpom IV/4 Surakarta for further investigation. The evidence includes one pistol, one magazine, one spent cartridge and CCTV footage from around the scene,” Indra said in Jakarta on Wednesday (28 October), as quoted by Antara.
Indra said evidence gathered during the investigation indicated that the suspect had been negligent in using the weapon.
He allegedly violated standard operating procedures by allowing a round to remain in the chamber while cocking the pistol.
AG is also suspected of placing his finger on the pistol’s trigger, which could cause it to fire. The weapon discharged and struck the victim, killing him.
Indra said Kopassus had conducted several investigative steps, including examining the scene, questioning witnesses and obtaining footage from nearby CCTV cameras.
The findings have all been handed over to the Military Police for further legal proceedings.
Command and counter-terrorism qualifications
Indra also said the suspect’s qualifications as a soldier had been revoked as an administrative sanction. The revoked qualifications were Para Commando and Counter-Terrorism.
According to various sources, Para Commando is a qualification awarded to soldiers who have completed special operations training. Considered among the most demanding courses, it focuses on developing individual soldiers’ physical and mental capabilities to the highest attainable standard. The training prepares commandos for special operations and rapid or surprise attacks, including in difficult terrain and with limited logistical support.
Counter-Terrorism qualification indicates that a soldier has specialist skills in counter-terrorism operations. In the Indonesian Army, particularly Kopassus, it is associated with service in Special Detachment 81 (Sat-81)/Counter-Terrorism.
“As a form of accountability and development, the unit has also taken administrative action by revoking the Para Commando and Counter-Terrorism qualifications of the individual involved in this negligence,” Indra said.
The suspect could be charged under Article 474(3) of the Criminal Code for negligence resulting in another person’s death, an offence punishable by up to five years in prison.
“We are committed to transparency, and the suspect will be punished to the fullest extent of the law,” he said.