Police Officer Who Uncovered Foreman Murder Case in Gianyar Receives Award
A member of the Gianyar Police Criminal Investigation Unit (Satreskrim), Aiptu Tri Sudana Merta, has been honoured with an award by his institution. He is the officer who solved the murder of a construction foreman named I Wayan Sedhana.
“One Satreskrim Polres Gianyar personnel member received an award for his success in solving a murder case,” said Gianyar Police Chief AKBP Chandra Kesuma in a statement on Monday (27/7/2026).
Chandra said the murder took place on 25 October 2025 in the rice fields of Subak Dalem Tenggaling, Banjar Puseh, Pejeng Village, Tampaksiring Subdistrict, Gianyar Regency. Merta, who investigated and ultimately solved the case, was granted the award.
Thanks to Merta’s success, the three murderers of the foreman — M Fais, Sandy Firmansyah, and Nurul Arifin — are now living behind bars at Kerobokan Prison. The three construction workers were found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment by the panel of judges at the Gianyar District Court.
“This is a form of institutional appreciation for dedication, loyalty, and tangible contributions in supporting the execution of police duties,” said Chandra.
Chandra said Merta was not the only officer to receive an award. Six other officers were also honoured for their dedication and achievements beyond their primary police duties.
Four personnel from the Gianyar Police Property and Evidence Unit (Sipropam) received awards for their dedication, thoroughness, and success in achieving the best rating for evidence management reporting and the fastest KEPP hearing handling. They have become role models in carrying out police duties.
In addition, one member of the Gianyar Police Samapta Unit and a community policing officer (Bhabinkamtibmas) from Singakerta Village, Ubud Police Sector, Iptu I Made Widastra, were also honoured. Widastra received the award for his achievement in winning second place in a stand-up comedy competition in the National Police category, held in conjunction with the 2026 Police Day celebrations.
“One Satsamapta Polres Gianyar personnel member received an award for the dedication, teamwork, and achievements demonstrated by winning third place in a basketball tournament during the 2026 Kapolri Cup series between ministries and agencies,” he said.
Chandra noted that one award was also given to a civilian. The owner of a dynamo workshop, I Nyoman Ariawan, was honoured for voluntarily helping to repair an official vehicle of the Blahbatuh Police Sector.
At the time, the Blahbatuh Police Sector’s official vehicle was desperately needed. Thanks to Ariawan’s service, Blahbatuh Police Sector officers were able to resume serving the public quickly.
“The concern shown by I Nyoman Ariawan is a tangible manifestation of synergy between the National Police and the community in supporting the smooth running of police duties. May this exemplary act inspire other members of the public to continue working in synergy with the National Police in maintaining security and public order in Gianyar Regency,” he said.
Chandra said the awards were earned through the hard work of all Gianyar Police personnel. He therefore hopes the awards will serve as inspiration, particularly for Gianyar Police personnel and their units, to continue providing the best possible service to the public.
“Achievements are not gained instantly, but through hard work, commitment, and responsibility carried out consistently. Keep on strengthening discipline, integrity, and the spirit of service,” he said.