Indonesia’s National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, has issued a forceful condemnation following the tragic death of 14-year-old Arianto Tawakal, a student from MTsN 1 Maluku. The teenager was allegedly assaulted by Bripda Masias Siahaya (Bripda MS), an active member of the Mobile Brigade (Brimob). In a stern response, the Kapolri immediately ordered decisive and thorough action against the accused officer.
Speaking from Majalengka, West Java, on Monday (February 23), General Sigit declared, “I have instructed the Regional Police Chief and the Head of the Professional and Security Division (Propam) to take firm action and process this case completely.” He further emphasized the critical need to “provide a sense of justice for the victim’s family,” demanding that “the process be transparent.” The Kapolri reiterated his directive for the “severest possible action” to be taken against Bripda MS.
Underlining the institution’s commitment to integrity, General Sigit asserted that the Indonesian National Police (Polri) would not hesitate to discipline any member who tarnishes the good name of the force. He reinforced a long-standing principle: “I have always stated that those who perform well will be rewarded, but those who violate regulations will face action, because we are all bound by rules.” This statement underscores a zero-tolerance policy for police misconduct.
In a swift response to the incident, the Maluku Regional Police (Polda Maluku) convened an ethical code tribunal for Bripda MS on the same Monday (February 23). The tribunal aimed to determine the officer’s membership status within the force, with a verdict anticipated by the end of the day. Concurrently, investigators from the Tual Resort Police have officially designated Bripda MS as a suspect, initiating criminal proceedings against him.
Bripda MS faces multiple charges for his alleged actions. He has been charged under Article 76C jo Article 80 paragraph (3) of the Child Protection Law, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Additionally, he is charged under Article 466 of the National Criminal Code (KUHP Nasional), pertaining to assault resulting in death, which carries a maximum sentence of 7 years imprisonment. These layered charges reflect the gravity of the accusations.
The tragic incident unfolded on Thursday (February 19) in the vicinity of Maren Hospital, Tual City. According to initial reports, Bripda MS intercepted Arianto Tawakal, who was riding with his brother, on suspicion that they were involved in illegal street racing. Without any apparent justification, Bripda MS allegedly struck the victim’s face with a steel helmet. The powerful blow caused Arianto to fall, bleeding profusely, and he tragically succumbed to his injuries. Crucial evidence, including the steel helmet and other personal attributes belonging to the suspect, was recovered from the scene, further solidifying the case against him.
Summary
Indonesia’s National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, strongly condemned the alleged assault and death of 14-year-old Arianto Tawakal by Brimob member Bripda Masias Siahaya (Bripda MS). General Sigit ordered immediate, decisive, and transparent action against the accused officer, demanding the “severest possible action” and justice for the victim’s family. He emphasized the institution’s commitment to integrity and a zero-tolerance policy for police misconduct.
Following the incident, the Maluku Regional Police convened an ethical tribunal for Bripda MS, while Tual Resort Police officially designated him as a suspect in criminal proceedings. Bripda MS faces charges under the Child Protection Law and the National Criminal Code, carrying maximum penalties of 15 and 7 years respectively. The tragic event occurred on February 19, when Bripda MS allegedly struck Arianto with a steel helmet, leading to his fatal injuries.