AJI Jakarta, LBH Pers Urge Police to Reveal Motives Behind Tempo Journalist's Car Vandalism
Translator
Editor
7 August 2024 08:58 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) Jakarta and the Legal Aid Institute for the Press (LBH Pers) have urged the police to thoroughly investigate the alleged act of intimidation against Tempo journalist Hussein Abri Dongoran. Hussein's car was vandalized on August 5, 2024, as he was returning home from a meeting in Central Jakarta.
Irsyan Hasyim, chairman of AJI Jakarta, called for a clear determination of the motive behind the attack. He emphasized the possibility of a connection to Hussein's journalistic work.
“If proven related to his coverage, the investigation must adhere to Article 18, paragraph (1) of Press Law No. 40 of 1999,” Irsyan stated in a written statement on August 6, 2024.
The law prohibits actions hindering the press' right to seek, obtain, and disseminate ideas and information.
Both organizations also demanded the arrest of the perpetrators, citing potential charges under Article 170 paragraph (1) or Article 406 paragraph (1) of the Criminal Code for acts of vandalism.
Additionally, AJI Jakarta and LBH Pers requested the Press Council's involvement in handling the alleged terror case against Hussein. “[We] ask the Press Council to deploy an anti-violence task force to oversee the investigation,” Irsyan said.
He also highlighted the need for the Press Council to comprehensively track and address violence against journalists.
Tempo Editor-in-Chief Setri Yasra expressed concern that the attack might be linked to Hussein's journalistic activities, given the absence of any apparent robbery attempt. The company’s legal team has filed a police report.
The South Jakarta Police have initiated an investigation into the incident following the report, examining the vandalized vehicle and the surrounding area for potential evidence.
Hussein Abri Dongoran, a political journalist for Tempo's National desk, frequently writes cover stories on political issues. He is also the host of Tempo’s political podcast "Bocor Alus Politik" on YouTube.
SULTAN ABDURRAHMAN
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