Pigai rejects calls to shoot robbers on the spot without due process

Bandung, West Java (ANTARA) - Indonesian Minister of Human Rights, Natalius Pigai, rejected the notion of shooting robbers on the spot without due process because it contravenes human rights principles and the rule of law. Pigai, speaking in Bandung, West Java, on Wednesday, said every crime offender must be arrested alive to be processed under the applicable law. ‘I do not allow people to be shot without going through clear procedures and legal processes. Robbers should not be shot on the spot,’ he said. He said arresting suspects alive is important to uncover networks, motives, and sources of crime through investigations by law enforcement authorities. ‘They are a source of information, data, and facts. Law enforcement can elicit data, facts, information, and can resolve the initiator or source,’ Pigai said. ‘No one may deprive a citizen of the right to life without going through the procedures and processes applicable in a country,’ he added. Pigai also reminded security personnel to focus on maintaining security stability so that the public can carry out activities safely and comfortably. Additionally, he cautioned that statements by officials supporting shootings without due process should be treated carefully as they could have legal consequences in practice. ‘Even a terrorist, if captured alive, can serve as a source of information, data,’ Pigai said. Earlier, Lampung Regional Police Chief Irjen Pol Helfi Assegaf ordered all ranks to take firm action against offenders of robberies and motor vehicle theft. ‘There is no tolerance for robbers. I have ordered shooting on the spot,’ he said at the Lampung Police Headquarters, on Friday. He said the step was taken because robberies were increasingly alarming to the public in Lampung. According to him, the robbers are no longer acting out of hunger, but largely because the proceeds of motor vehicle theft are used to buy drugs.