Ilham Oktafian, Jakarta – Six low-ranking Army soldiers have been identified as criminal suspects for assaulting supporters of presidential candidate Ganjar Pranowo during a recent rally in Boyolali, Central Java, according to an announcement by the military on Tuesday.

During the incident on Saturday, at least seven supporters were injured, with two requiring treatment at a local hospital after being attacked by a group of army privates.

The confrontation stemmed from the soldiers' agitation caused by the noise from passing motorcycles in front of the 408th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Boyolali.

"Following a thorough assessment of physical evidence and witness statements, the Military Police unit in Surakarta initiated a criminal investigation," said Colonel Richard Harison, a spokesperson for the Diponegoro Regional Military Command responsible for Central Java.

An earlier statement from the Army labeled the incident as a spontaneous event arising from a misunderstanding.

Ganjar's supporters were riding motorcycles, causing engine noise while soldiers were engaged in exercises and a volleyball game. This led to a heated exchange between the soldiers and the rally attendees, resulting in a physical altercation.

"The Army's leadership is committed to upholding the rule of law. Any soldier found guilty in the assault case will face strict sanctions in accordance with existing laws and regulations," Indonesian Army spokesperson Brigadier General Kristomei Sianturi said in a statement.

Ganjar, who visited Boyolali last weekend, swiftly condemned the incident and promptly contacted Armed Forces Commander General Agus Subianto, urging an immediate investigation.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/six-soldiers-named-suspects-in-assault-on-ganjars-supporter