Police Examine Nine Witnesses in MTs Student Bullying Case in Pati

The case of alleged bullying against AF (12), a seventh-grade student at MTs Islam Wangunrejo in Margorejo District, Pati Regency, has entered a new phase. The Pati City Police have examined nine witnesses to investigate the incident, which caused the victim to lose two fingers. Based on observations on Wednesday (5/8), investigators continued intensive inquiries, including collecting evidence and processing the crime scene. The case has drawn public attention due to the serious physical and psychological impact on the victim. Pati Police Criminal Investigation Unit Head, Commissioner Dika Hadiyan Widya Wiratama, confirmed that his team is working swiftly to investigate the report. “We are currently investigating the alleged bullying case involving the MTs student in Pati,” Dika said on Wednesday (5/8). The nine witnesses who have been questioned include the victim, school officials, and the child in conflict with the law (the alleged perpetrator). Dika stressed that the entire process adheres to the Juvenile Criminal Justice System Law. “The investigation is proceeding with due regard to applicable legal procedures so as not to disrupt the child’s psychological development,” he added. Regarding the next steps, the Pati Police are open to resolving the case through restorative justice. According to Dika, an out-of-court settlement is a priority in the juvenile justice system as mandated by law. “This is not to reduce or dismiss the case, but to carry out a mandatory procedure stipulated by law,” Dika explained. The police are also coordinating with various technical agencies to provide comprehensive assistance to the victim, who is still undergoing physical and psychological recovery. Meanwhile, the family has revealed that AF is suffering from severe trauma. Sulistyono, the victim’s uncle, said his nephew is extremely fearful, especially when passing the school area or meeting teachers. This condition has prompted the family to plan transferring AF to another school. “Although his physical health has started to improve since leaving the hospital, his psychological condition requires serious attention. To date, the alleged perpetrator, who is a ninth-grade senior, has also not come to apologise,” Sulistyono said. Responding to this situation, the Head of the Regional Technical Implementation Unit for the Protection of Women and Children at the Pati Social Service, Hartono, stated that assistance measures have been prepared. His team will soon dispatch a psychologist to help restore the victim’s mental health. “Previously, together with the Astuti Foundation, we conducted an initial assessment. We are ready to provide full assistance throughout the legal process,” Hartono concluded.