Jakarta – Indonesia Army spokesperson Brig. Gen. Alfret Denny Tuejeh has said members of his institution and their colleagues in the police force will maintain their good relationship, despite two recent assault cases allegedly involving their respective personnel.
"The army will continue working with the police to maintain peace and security, especially ahead of Idul Fitri, the 2018 Asian Games and regional elections," he said on Tuesday.
"The Army also remains confident and entrusts the police to handle these two cases." Alfret was referring to the assault cases that led to the death of one soldier and injured two policemen and another solider.
The first case happened on Thursday when eight Mobile Brigade (Brimob) personnel allegedly attacked and stabbed two soldiers at Billiard Al Diablo bar in Depok, West Java.
It was reported that the police officers became engaged in a brawl with the victims, Second Sgt. Nikolas Kegomoi and Second Sgt. Darma Aji, who are both members of the Jakarta Military District Command.
Both soldiers were rushed to Gatot Subroto Army Hospital but Darma passed away later that afternoon. Nikolas remains under intensive care.
The second case happened on Saturday when two policemen were assaulted by unknown assailants while buying drinks behind Graha Cijantung Mall in Cijantung, East Jakarta. The two victims, Bimo Yudho Prasetyo and Feri Saputra, were second police brigadiers and part of the Jakarta Police.
The policemen survived and reported the incident to Pasar Rebo Police Station before being sent to Kramat Jati Police Hospital.
The police are still investigating the second assault. There has been widespread speculation the attack was perpetrated by soldiers, Tribunnews and Kompas reported.
Meanwhile, the eight Brimob officers suspected of committing the assault in Depok last Thursday were arrested on Friday and will be processed and punished in accordance to the law.
"The police will not hide these individuals who have tarnished the reputation of the police," said National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Muhammad Iqbal. (nor/ebf)