Police Shooting in Makassar: Teen Dies After Officer’s Gun Discharges During Arrest
Authorities launch investigation as public scrutiny over police conduct grows
A fatal shooting involving an Indonesian police officer in Makassar has sparked renewed concerns over the use of force by law enforcement after an 18-year-old died during an attempted arrest.
Fatal Incident in Makassar
An 18-year-old identified as Bertrand Eko Prasetyo died after being shot during an incident on Jl. Toddopuli Raya in the Panakkukang district of Makassar on March 1. Local police confirmed the incident during a press conference.
According to Makassar police chief Sr. Comr. Arya Perdana, officers had responded to reports of a group of youths playing with toy water gel blasters in the street and disrupting traffic.
Struggle During Attempted Arrest
Police said the teenagers were also behaving aggressively toward a motorcyclist. An officer from the Panakkukang district, identified only as First Police Inspector N., attempted to apprehend one of the youths.
During the confrontation, the officer fired a warning shot. Police stated that the firearm accidentally discharged during a struggle, striking the victim in the back.
Victim Taken to Hospital
The teenager was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital before being referred to Bhayangkara Police Hospital in Makassar. Despite medical treatment, he later died from his injuries.
The incident has drawn attention due to the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the involvement of law enforcement personnel.
Officer Under Investigation
Authorities have confiscated the officer’s firearm and placed him in custody while investigations proceed. The case will be examined under both criminal law and internal disciplinary procedures.
Police chief Arya Perdana promised transparency in the investigation and urged the public to follow the legal process closely.
Family and Public Demand Accountability
The victim’s mother, Desi Manutu, expressed shock and grief over her son’s death, questioning how the shooting occurred.
She said warning shots are typically fired into the air and called for accountability and clarity regarding the events leading to the fatal discharge.
The Makassar shooting has intensified ongoing discussions about police accountability and the use of force in Indonesia. Recent incidents involving young victims have increased public scrutiny of law enforcement practices, highlighting the importance of transparent investigations and reforms to ensure public trust and safety.
Sources: Straits Times (2026) , The Star (2026)
Keywords: Bertrand Eko Prasetyo, Makassar Police Shooting, Panakkukang Incident, Police Investigation Indonesia, Police Use Of Force