Komnas HAM to Investigate Tribata TV Journalist's House Fire

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Commission on Human Rights Komnas HAM will monitor and investigate the case of a house fire that took the life of Tribrata TV journalist Rico Sempurna Pasaribu in Kabanjahe District, Karo Regency, North Sumatra.

Rico Sempurna Pasaribu and three members of his family were victims of a house fire on June 27, 2024. Chair of Komnas HAM Atnike Nova Sigiro said Indonesia’s Human Rights Law mandated Komnas HAM’s investigation.

"Komnas HAM will investigate the case to obtain information, data, and facts regarding the incident," said Atnike in an official statement on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

Komnas HAM also urged law enforcers to be professional and accountable to ensure justice for the victim and his family members. Atnike also encouraged the government to guarantee respect, protection, and fulfillment of press freedom in Indonesia.

Atnike said the initial report from the fact-finding team of the North Sumatra Journalist Safety Commission (KKJ) found that the house fire occurred after Rico Pasaribu reported a gambling case in Karo Regency that allegedly involved Indonesian military personnel.

Another version said the fire was caused by spilled gasoline in the victim's house which set the fire ablaze.

Meanwhile, the Press Council urged the police to form a fair and impartial investigation team, and the Indonesian military to investigate the case fairly. 

Head of the Indonesian Armed Forces Information Center, Major General Nugraha Gumilar, said his side is still investigating the alleged involvement of soldiers in the case. He said the presumption of innocence must be prioritized, but the military will take firm action against the perpetrators if the allegation is proven right. 

EKA YUDHA SAPUTRA

Editor’s Choice: Press Council Suspects Military Involvement in Death of Tribrata TV Journalist 

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News