Retired JICT Employee Killed in a Robbery in Bekasi; Police Probe Suspected Premeditated Murder

Jakarta, VIVA - Police say they will explore all possibilities related to the brutal robbery that killed Ermanto Usman (65), a retired employee of the Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT). It is known that Ermanto Usman was a labour activist who had once been a member of the JICT Workers’ Union. He also frequently appeared as a guest on the Madilog podcast, which discusses various labour issues, including alleged corruption at JICT, Pelindo’s port operations. As such, suspicion has grown that the victim was targeted. In response, police say they will investigate information pointing towards a crime of premeditated murder in this case.

“Still under investigation, all information is needed to aid investigators,” said Head of Public Relations for the Metro Jaya Regional Police, Chief Commissioner Budi Hermanto, on Monday, 9 March 2026.

Police said the joint team in the case has been expanded. This was disclosed by the Head of Public Relations for the Bekasi City Police, Ajun Komisaris Polisi Suparyono. He said the Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) of the National Police also assisted.

“Yes, for now the joint team from Bareskrim, Polda, and Bekasi City, Pondok Gede Sector, is still conducting investigations,” Suparyono said.

Earlier reports indicated that police were still pursuing the perpetrators of the brutal robbery that killed a port worker retiree at his home in the Jatibening area, Bekasi City, West Java.

To date, authorities are also seeking to uncover the motive behind the crime. The victim has been identified as Ermanto Usman (65), a retired employee of JICT.

He was found dead inside his home, while his wife, identified by initials P (60), was in a critical condition after suffering serious injuries. Police extended their condolences over the tragedy.

They emphasised that police are continuing to work hard to identify the perpetrators of the deadly robbery, and that the case remains a high priority.

“We extend our condolences to the victim’s family; may the perpetrators be arrested soon,” said Head of Public Relations for the Metro Jaya Police, Chief Commissioner Budi Hermanto, Thursday, 5 March 2026.

For information, Ermanto Usman’s family has officially filed for protection with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK).