Two TNI-Polri Personnel Die Rescuing Student from Drowning in Maluku
Two members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) died after being swept away by currents while attempting to rescue a drowning student at Nirun Beach in Tual, Maluku.
The victims were identified as Briptu Nanda Tutupoho of the Maluku Regional Police and Sergeant Rangga of the Dumatubun Air Force Base. They perished after being struck by large waves while trying to save a student who had jumped from a rocky cliff into the sea at Nirun Lear Ngursoin Beach, Kei Kecil Selatan District, Southeast Maluku Regency, on Sunday (21/6).
Maluku Police Public Relations Head, Commissioner Rositah Umasugi, expressed deep condolences over the loss of the two personnel. “The entire Maluku Regional Police family conveys its deepest sorrow over the passing of Briptu Nanda Tutupoho and Sergeant Rangga. They demonstrated extraordinary courage, care, and dedication to the community. Their actions were a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence in protecting and helping fellow human beings,” she said in an official statement on Monday (22/6).
She stated that the sacrifice made by Briptu Nanda and Sergeant Rangga serves as a model of devotion that should be remembered and become an inspiration for all members of the Police and TNI. The Maluku Police, together with the Air Force, provided final honours and are assisting the bereaved families.
The incident occurred around 2:40 p.m. WIT. A group of junior high school students, who had become separated from their supervising teacher, were taking photos on the cliff at Nirun Lear Ngursoin Beach. One student, 16-year-old Opy Hanubun, suddenly jumped from the cliff into the sea. He struggled to swim due to strong currents around the cliff and called for help.
Briptu Nanda and Sergeant Rangga, who were at the location, immediately attempted a rescue. However, large waves and strong currents caused both to be swept away. Other beachgoers also jumped into the water to assist. The student was successfully rescued, and all three were rushed to the Danar Community Health Centre. Briptu Nanda Tutupoho passed away en route to Karek Sadsuitubun Hospital, while Sergeant Rangga died upon arrival at the health centre.