Teen Dies in Tual Following Alleged Assault by Police Officer; Officer Charged Under Child Protection Law

14-year-old’s death sparks calls for transparency and dismissal of Brimob officer A 14-year-old boy in Tual, Maluku, has died after allegedly being struck in the head with a steel helmet by a police officer. The case has triggered public outrage, with the family demanding justice and the officer’s dismissal. Incident During Ramadan Morning The incident occurred on Thursday, Feb 19, 2026, in Tual, Maluku. AT (14) and his older brother, NKT (15), left their home despite their father’s refusal to let them go to the city centre, which was crowded due to the start of Ramadan. About 10 minutes later, NKT returned home injured and told their father, Rijik Tawakal, that AT had been struck by a Brimob officer. Alleged Blow With Steel Helmet According to the family, AT was hit in the face while riding his motorcycle. The blow allegedly caused him to lose balance and fall, with his head striking the asphalt. His uncontrolled motorcycle then collided with his brother’s bike. At the scene, Rijik reportedly found blood stains on the road but not his son, who had already been taken to hospital. Later, part of a steel helmet allegedly used in the assault was found near the location. Victim Died After Six Hours AT was hospitalised in an unconscious state with severe facial injuries. He died approximately six hours later at 1pm local time. The family rejected claims that the teenager had been part of a motorcycle convoy, insisting he was simply riding with his brother. Officer Named As Suspect Initially denying involvement, Bripda Masias Siahaya, a member of Brimob Company 1 Battalion C Pelopor, has since been detained. Maluku Police spokesperson Commissioner Rositah Umasugi said that after examining 14 witnesses and gathering evidence, the officer was named a suspect and detained at Tual Police detention centre. He has been charged under Article 76C in conjunction with Article 80 paragraph (3) of Law No. 35/2014 on Child Protection, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment. He also faces charges under Article 466 of Law No. 1/2023 on the Criminal Code for assault resulting in death, which carries a maximum penalty of seven years. Ethical Proceedings And Public Reaction Police said the suspect is also undergoing an internal disciplinary and ethics process, which could result in dismissal if violations are proven. The Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) strongly condemned the incident, calling it a serious act of violence against a child and urging firm criminal and ethical punishment. YLBHI chair M Isnur said the case reflects deeper systemic issues within law enforcement and called for structural reform, particularly regarding Brimob’s engagement with civilians. For AT’s family, the loss remains immeasurable. As investigations continue, they are calling for full transparency and firm legal action. The case has reignited broader concerns about police accountability and the protection of minors in Indonesia. Sources: Kompas (2026) , Detik (2026) Keywords: Tual Teen Death, Bripda Masias Siahaya Case, Indonesia Police Violence, Child Protection Law Article 76C, Maluku Police Investigation