A video showing a police officer assaulting an evangelist during his demonstration (individual speech) in front of the Biak Numfor Resort Police Office has gone viral and has caused significant public concern and led to immediate actions by the authorities.
The incident, which occurred on 12 July 2024, has prompted an internal investigation by the Papua Police and attracted the attention of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) in Papua.
The video shows a protester delivering a speech with a loudspeaker before being confronted and ill-treated by police officers. The evangelist protester was reportedly raising issues that needed police intervention when the situation escalated, leading to the violent response from the officers.
The Papua Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Mathius D. Fakhiri, quickly took notice of the incident and instructed the Head of the Professional and Security Division (Propam) of the Papua Police to investigate the matter thoroughly. He also called on Komnas HAM Papua to visit Biak Numfor to conduct an independent investigation and determine the circumstances that led to the confrontation.
In response, the Biak Numfor Police Chief, AKBP Arie Trestiawan, confirmed that an internal investigation was already in progress. Disciplinary action has been taken against the officers involved, and further legal actions might follow based on the investigation's findings. The police emphasized that they are open to criticism and public feedback, but insisted that such feedback should be delivered through formal and peaceful channels.
The altercation took place during preparations for a ceremonial event at the police headquarters. The police explained that the unannounced speech by the evangelist disrupted the event, leading to a spontaneous and regrettable reaction from the officers on duty. It was admitted that some officers threw small pebbles at the evangelist during the incident but denied the use of larger stones.
Fritz Ramandey, the Head of Komnas HAM Papua, confirmed that the commission had been contacted by the Papua Police Chief to monitor the investigation. While Komnas HAM has not yet decided whether to send a team to Biak, they are closely following the investigation led by Propam. The incident has sparked discussions on police conduct and the need for accountability, especially in handling public expressions of dissent.
As the investigation continues, both the police and human rights organisations face pressure to ensure a transparent and fair resolution to the case.