Outrage! TNI Soldier Beats Civilian to Death in North Maluku, Commander of 733 Masariku Battalion Speaks Out

The Commander of Infantry Battalion (Danyonif) 733/Masariku has apologised regarding the assault by one of its soldiers that led to the death of a civilian in Umaloya Village, Sanana, North Maluku. Commander of Infantry Battalion 733/Masariku, Lieutenant Colonel Infantry M. Aminulah, in Sanana, North Maluku, expressed apologies to all levels of society for the public unrest caused by the incident. He also conveyed deep condolences to the victim’s family. “On behalf of myself and the entire Yonif 733/Masariku family, I extend our deepest condolences to the family of the late Sukra Umagafur. We share in the family’s grief, and we pray that the deceased finds the best place by the side of Almighty God,” he said on Friday, 27 March 2026. According to him, based on the initial report, the incident on Sunday, 22 March 2026, began with a dispute between youths. The younger brother of the soldier with initials Private SB was involved in a fight with the victim’s younger brother. The dispute then escalated when a group from the victim’s family arrived at Private SB’s house in an emotional state and protested vehemently in front of the house while the soldier was on Lebaran leave. According to him, on the way home, Private SB’s younger brother was allegedly stopped and assaulted by a group of people influenced by alcohol. Private SB, witnessing the event, tried to intervene by hugging his brother but ended up being targeted with blows to the head and neck. In the desperate situation, Private SB retaliated with a punch that struck the victim’s face, causing him to fall and hit the back of his head on the asphalt. The victim was rushed to Sanana Hospital before being pronounced dead. The commander emphasised that the TNI is an institution born from the people and for the people, so any actions by soldiers that harm those values will be handled seriously. “We assure that the TNI will never cover up the facts. However, let us give space for the relevant parties to work on examining the facts in full and objectively,” he stated. He also regretted the vigilante actions by a group of residents who intimidated and damaged the soldier’s private home. According to him, such anarchic actions are legal violations that should not occur in society.