Makassar Teenager Shot Dead Case Draws Scrutiny from National Police Headquarters as Iptu N Is Monitored in Legal Proceedings

The death of an 18-year-old in Makassar, Betrand Eka Prasetyo, has drawn serious attention from the National Police Headquarters. The legal process against the police officer identified as Iptu N, who is alleged to be the perpetrator, is now being overseen directly by Polri leadership at the central level.

Head of the Public Information Bureau of the Public Relations Division of Polri, Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, emphasised that Polri will not hesitate to decisively punish any violations by its members, especially when such violations result in loss of life.

“Thus swift and decisive steps should be taken against the perpetrators. This has been conveyed by the Makassar City Police Chief,” he said, on Thursday, 5 March 2026.

He explained that the strict measures taken by the police forces within the South Sulawesi Regional Police and Makassar City Police include two parallel processes, namely criminal and ethical. According to Trunoyudo, Iptu N has now been named a suspect and is detained at Makassar Police Station as part of the ongoing legal process.

“And in parallel with that, of course, the ethics code will be observed for the person involved,” he added.

Earlier reports indicated Betrand died after being shot by a police officer during an arrest in Makassar, South Sulawesi.

The incident occurred after the victim was allegedly involved in a melee using toy guns that fired jelly pellets. The Makassar City Police Chief, Police Commissioner Arya Perdana, confirmed the incident. It happened on Sunday, 1 March 2026. The Rapocini Police Sector Chief reported via handheld radio (HT) that a group of youths was suspected of playing with toy guns on the street and disturbing residents. According to the report, the youths intercepted road users, and were alleged to have shoved and even kicked passing motorists.

“These actions were very disturbing to the community,” he said, Wednesday, 4 March 2026.

Upon receiving the report, Iptu N went to the scene. On arrival, he found Betrand allegedly acting harshly toward a motorcyclist. Iptu N then stepped out of the car and made an arrest. During the process, he fired a warning shot.