Komnas HAM to Monitor Police Investigation into Meranti Riot

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Commission for Human Rights will monitor the development of investigation into last Thursday’s riot in Selatpanjang, Meranti Island, Riau. The riot was sparked by residents’ anger over the death of Apri Adi Pratama, 24, the suspect in the murder of a police officer.

“It has also been specifically requested by community members and Riau regional council,” Komnas HAM commissioner Natalius Pigai said Wednesday in a written statement.

Natalius Pigai said Komnas HAM has expressed its appreciation over the national police plans to take some measures, including to dismiss Meranti Police Precinct chief.

The investigation by Komnas HAM, according to Pigai, may encourage an objective, impartial legal process to bring the suspect, who has caused civilian death, into justice.

Komnas HAM is aiming to restore sense of security and peace among local residents and police personnel. Because the riot is sparked by allegations that police had mishandled the arrest.

“Investigation into the incident [will take place] from Friday to Monday, September 2-5, 2016,” he asaid.

Apri Adi Pratama, a temporary worker of Meranti Regional Income Office (Dispenda), stabbed a cop, Brigadier Adil S. Tambunan, 31, at the parking lot of Furama Hotel, Selatpanjang, Thursday, August 25. Apri had been arrested but was killed shortly afterwards.

The incident sparked the anger of hundreds of residents of Selatpanjang Village. Things were haeting up as residents threw stones at Meranti Police Precinct, prompting police to control the situation by firing shots into the air.

Police are still pursuing the riot instigator.

YOHANES PASKALIS