Makassar teen shot dead by police: DPR member calls for stringent punishment for the perpetrator

Jakarta, Kompas.com – Abdullah, a member of the DPR’s Commission III, urged strict sanctions against the police who shot and killed a teenager in Makassar, South Sulawesi. He stressed that laxity in the procedures governing police firearms use must not result in civilian deaths. The Indonesian National Police (Polri) must conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting case to prevent public speculation. ‘This case must be investigated thoroughly and transparently. If negligence or breach of procedures is found, the perpetrators must face strict sanctions. There must be no impression of impunity for authorities,’ Abdullah said in a statement on Wednesday (5 March 2026). In the SOP, it states that firearms may only be used as a last resort when a life-threatening situation exists. ‘The police must be professional and proportional. The use of firearms must not be done arbitrarily because the risks to public safety are very high. This should be a moment for a comprehensive review of field weapon-use procedures,’ Abdullah said. He urged Polri to tighten supervision, training, and discipline of officers licensed to carry firearms to prevent similar incidents. ‘Law enforcement must be fair. We will continue to monitor to ensure the legal process is objective and provides justice for the victim’s family. Every action by authorities must be grounded in the principle of accountability,’ Abdullah said. Iptu N has been named a suspect after police conducted investigations into a general criminal offence in the case. The unfortunate incident involving the 18-year-old occurred on Jalan Toddopuli Raya, Panakkukang District, Makassar City, South Sulawesi, on Sunday 1 March 2026. According to information gathered, the incident occurred when Bertrand and several other teenagers were involved in a clash using water jelly gun toys around 07:00 Wita. Iptu N then arrived at the scene to disperse the action and secure Bertrand. However, during the security operation, Iptu N’s firearm discharged accidentally. ‘As he struggled, the pistol still held by Iptu N discharged, striking the back of his body,’ said Makassar City Police Chief Kombes Pol Arya Perdana.