KPAI Says Brimob Officer's Fatal Assault on Child in Tual Violates Constitution

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has strongly condemned the alleged assault by Maluku Regional Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer Bripda MS against a child that resulted in death in Tual City, Southeast Maluku Regency, Maluku Province.

“We strongly condemn the alleged assault that caused the death of a child in Tual. This is not merely a legal violation but a constitutional violation,” said KPAI member Aris Adi Leksono when contacted in Jakarta on Monday.

KPAI is urging law enforcement to apply aggravating provisions as stipulated in Article 76C in conjunction with Article 80 paragraph (3) of the Child Protection Act, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 15 years’ imprisonment when violence against a child results in death.

“State officers are representatives of the state. When officers commit violence against children, the state must be firmly present to uphold justice. If found guilty, the perpetrator must receive the maximum sentence. There must be no impunity. In addition to criminal proceedings, an ethical sanction in the form of dishonourable discharge must be imposed. The ethics hearing must be conducted openly to maintain public trust,” said Aris Adi Leksono.

Previously, a boy identified by the initials AT (14) died after a Brimob officer identified as Bripda MS struck the victim with a tactical helmet in Tual City, Southeast Maluku Regency, Maluku Province, on Thursday (19 February).

The incident began when Brimob officers were conducting a security patrol in Tual City. A group of vehicles was then spotted travelling at high speed and suspected of engaging in illegal street racing.

At the time, the victim was riding pillion with his older brother, identified by the initial N (15), on a motorcycle. The perpetrator suspected the victim was part of the street racing group.

On the road, the perpetrator swung his tactical helmet, striking the victim’s face, causing the victim to fall from the motorcycle.

The victim was rushed to Karel Sadsuitubun Regional Hospital in Langgur for medical treatment, but tragically his life could not be saved.

The victim’s older brother also suffered assault resulting in bone fractures.