Police Murder Defendant Richard E Claims to Merely Follow the General's Orders

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Murder case defendant, Bharada (2nd patrolman) Richard Eliezer Pudihang Lumiu – who is embroiled in the high profile murder case involving former Police Internal Affairs Chief Ferdy Sambo – made a public apology following his court trial today to the relatives of the deceased, Nofriansyah Yosua Hutabarat. In his statement in the court trial, Richard undermined his role as a subordinate who cannot refuse orders from the general. 

He initially wrote his letter of apology behind bars at the National Police Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) on Sunday, October 16. He only had the opportunity to convey it publicly in the indictment hearing at the South Jakarta District Court on October 18.

“I truly regret the actions that I have committed, but I would like to state that I am merely a police subordinate with no ability to reject direct orders from a general (referring to Ferdy Sambo). Thank you,” said Richard after his trial. 

Richard also conveyed his condolences for the tragic loss of life of Yosua, who he referred to as Bang Yos, (bang or abang is an honorific title commonly used in referring to someone who is older).

"And to the family of the late Bang Yos, his parents, Reza, and the entire extended family of Bang Yos, I apologize. I hope my apologies can be accepted, Lord Jesus always gives strength and comfort to the family of the late Bang Yos," said Richard.

The defendant Richard Eliezer did not file an exception or a memorandum of objection to the indictment read by the Public Prosecutor (JPU) today, Tuesday, October 18.

EKA YUDHA SAPUTRA 

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