Tuanku Imam Bonjol Military Command conducts ballistic forensic tests following stray bullet incident

The XX/Tuability Imam Bonjol Military Command (Kodam) has announced that ballistic forensic testing is ongoing regarding the incident involving stray bullets that struck two civilians in the Padang State University area, West Sumatra.

“The projectile is still undergoing forensic testing, and the investigation team is continuing to process the crime scene,” stated Colonel Kav Taufiq, Head of Information for Kodam XX/Tuanku Imam Bonjol, in Padang on Thursday.

As part of the investigation, Kodam XX/Tuanku Imam Bonjol is collaborating with a specialist team from Jakarta, particularly regarding the ballistic analysis. The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are currently gathering all necessary information.

The Head of Information did not rule out the possibility that the stray bullet may have originated from TNI personnel who were conducting shooting exercises at the Lapai Shooting Range in Padang at the time of the incident. “There is a possibility, but forensic testing is still underway,” he added.

Colonel Taufiq assured that the TNI will act professionally, transparently, and accountably in resolving the case involving the two civilians hit on Tuesday (2/6) near the Rectorate building of Padang State University.

According to preliminary investigation results released on Wednesday (3/6), the projectile that struck the victims was identified as a 9mm round. At the time of the incident, the 897/Singgalang Infantry Battalion was indeed conducting live-fire training.

He noted that during these exercises, soldiers utilise both long-barreled and short-barreled weapons. However, the investigation team requires more time to review the training procedures and inspect the crime scene.

“The purpose of this investigation is to explore all possibilities. We are attempting to dig as deep as possible into every assumption to reach a definitive conclusion,” he expressed.

Finally, he stated that if any personnel are found to have violated standard operating procedures, they will face sanctions in accordance with applicable regulations. “The point is, there is no need for fear or worry; we will be transparent,” he concluded.