PowerNetizen.com, Deli Serdang, November 13, 2024 — The Indonesian National Human Rights Commission is conducting an in-depth investigation into an alleged attack carried out by Indonesian soldiers in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra. The attack, which occurred earlier this week, has raised public concerns over potential human rights violations during the incident.
1. Chronology of Events
According to initial reports, the incident took place in a village in Deli Serdang Regency. Several Indonesian soldiers were involved in an assault on local civilians. Witnesses claim that the conflict was triggered by a dispute between residents and the military over contested land. The clash resulted in several civilians being injured and damage to their property.
One of the victims, identified as Andi, stated that the attack happened suddenly. “We didn’t expect any violence. They came and attacked our homes. Some of us were injured from the beatings,” Andi explained.
2. Response from the Indonesian National Human Rights Commission
In response to the reports, the Indonesian National Human Rights Commission immediately deployed a team to the site to gather information and collect statements from witnesses and victims involved in the incident. The chairman of the commission, Ahmad Taufan Damanik, emphasized that the commission is taking the case seriously to determine whether there were any human rights violations committed by the Indonesian soldiers.
“We are conducting a thorough investigation to ensure the rights of civilians are respected. There is no place for violence in any situation, especially when it involves state apparatus,” Taufan Damanik said in a statement to the media.
3. Response from the Military
The military, through the Regional Military Command I/Bukit Barisan, also issued an official statement regarding the incident. They acknowledged that a confrontation had occurred but assured the public that they are conducting an internal investigation to determine the involvement of their personnel. A spokesperson for the military said that firm action would be taken if any violations of procedure or military code of conduct were found.
“We will take firm action against anyone proven to have violated the law and military ethics. We are currently investigating what actually happened on the ground,” said Colonel Agus Widodo, spokesperson for the Regional Military Command I/Bukit Barisan.
4. Public and NGO Support
The incident has garnered attention from various civil society organizations and human rights-focused non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Several NGOs have called for a transparent and thorough investigation and have urged for the protection of the affected civilians.
Maya Puspitasari, director of the Legal Aid Institute in Medan, expressed concern over the incident. “Violence by state apparatus cannot be tolerated. We demand that this case be handled transparently and fairly, and justice be provided for the affected civilians,” she emphasized.
5. Next Steps for the Indonesian National Human Rights Commission
The Indonesian National Human Rights Commission has announced that it will hold a series of meetings with relevant parties, including military representatives, local government officials, and the affected communities, to further investigate the incident. They also plan to issue policy recommendations to the government regarding steps that should be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
“We hope all parties will cooperate fully in this investigation to ensure that such incidents do not happen again in the future,” added Ahmad Taufan Damanik.
6. Call for Peace
Meanwhile, local government officials in Deli Serdang have called for all parties to remain calm and maintain a peaceful situation. Deli Serdang Regent, Ashari Tambunan, stated that dialogue and mediation would be the main approaches to resolving the land dispute that triggered the conflict.
“We strongly urge all parties to exercise restraint and not escalate the situation. We will work towards mediation to find the best solution for everyone involved,” said Regent Ashari.
Conclusion
The alleged attack by Indonesian soldiers in Deli Serdang is currently under the scrutiny of the Indonesian National Human Rights Commission and other concerned parties. A comprehensive investigation is expected to uncover the facts surrounding the incident and bring justice to the victims. Upholding human rights and ensuring transparency in handling the case will be key to resolving this conflict, while maintaining peace remains a top priority for the local community.
Sources: Indonesian National Human Rights Commission, Regional Military Command I/Bukit Barisan, LBH Medan, Deli Serdang Local Government
Written by : Budi Gunawan
