Mob Attacks West Sumba Police Station, One Dead
A man with the initials MBP (20) died during an attack on the West Sumba Police Station, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), on Tuesday (15/9) night. Police have ensured that their personnel did not use live ammunition when dispersing the mob during the incident.
NTT Regional Police Head of Public Relations, Kombes Henry Novika Chandra, stated that MBP was a resident of West Sumba. The victim was found dead at the scene, and his body is currently undergoing medical examination to determine the cause of death.
“One victim was found at the location last night,” Henry said in Kupang on Wednesday (16/9/2026).
Based on a 12-second viral video, MBP appeared to be wearing a green t-shirt, a black jacket, and grey shorts. Several residents were seen crowding around the man’s body, which lay on the road.
Henry explained that all personnel involved in the security operation were confirmed not to have fired at the crowd or the victim. He stated that the police dispersed the mob using tear gas and rubber bullets in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
“The NTT Regional Police and West Sumba Police Station, who conducted the security of the headquarters last night, were firm in not using live ammunition. Therefore, the security measures used were in accordance with the SOP to disperse the crowd,” Henry explained.
According to Henry, MBP’s body is currently being identified at the Lende Moripa Christian Hospital in West Sumba. A medical examination is being conducted to ascertain the cause of the victim’s death.
“Based on the reports we have received so far, there was respiratory arrest in the lungs. As for the cause, we are still awaiting the results of the scientific investigation,” Henry clarified.
The NTT Regional Police are committed to investigating the case thoroughly, transparently, and professionally. The investigation will be conducted using scientific investigation methods and will involve forensic experts.
“Ultimately, the medical professionals will conclude the cause of a person’s death.”
Henry urged all parties in West Sumba not to be easily provoked by false information. He requested that the public remain calm and trust the police to handle the case.
“Information that disrupts public order, such as hoaxes, hate speech, and provocation, must be avoided. Please report through the 110 call centre if there is any other information,” Henry concluded.