Ade Ridwan Yandwiputra, Jakarta – Journalists from state news agency Antara became victims of violence while covering a protest at the House of Representatives (DPR) building in Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday, August 25, 2025.
The incident drew sharp criticism from the Independent Journalist Alliance (AJI) Jakarta and the Legal Aid Institute for the Press (LBH Pers), who denounced the assault as yet another attack on press freedom.
AJI Jakarta Chairperson Irsyan Hasyim said the assault reflected a pattern of repeated violence by police officers against journalists in the field. According to AJI's records, from June 2024 to June 2025 there were more than 20 reported cases of violence against members of the press.
"Most of these cases occur during coverage of demonstrations, such as May Day rallies or protests rejecting the TNI bill," Irsyan said in a statement on Monday.
He stressed that the brutality was unacceptable and violated the mandate of Article 8 of the Press Law, which obliges the state to protect journalists carrying out their duties. "The National Police Chief must immediately evaluate procedures for handling demonstrations by prioritizing human rights and halting repressive actions," Irsyan urged.
Echoing the concern, the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Institute for the Press, Mustafa Layong, stated that the violence not only amounted to a criminal offense but also constituted a direct attack on the Press Law (Law No. 40/1999). He pointed out violations of Article 4 Paragraph (3), which guarantees press independence, and Article 18 Paragraph (1), which stipulates sanctions for those obstructing journalistic work.
"The penalty is up to two years in prison or a fine of Rp500 million," Mustafa said.
He called on National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo and Jakarta Metro Police to investigate the assault thoroughly and transparently.
"Police must stop normalizing violent practices under the pretext of maintaining order and security. Arrest, prosecute, and bring to justice all perpetrators of violence from within the police ranks," he demanded.
The incident involved Antara photojournalist Bayu Pratama, who was on duty at the DPR protest. Bayu had worn full press identification, including a helmet and an Antara press card, to distinguish himself from demonstrators.
Despite this, police officers struck him with a baton as they dispersed the crowd. Bayu, who had tried to move aside to avoid the clashes, sustained injuries to his arm and hand, and his camera equipment was damaged.
Mustafa emphasized that the attack underscored poor law enforcement and a culture of impunity surrounding violence against journalists.
"The work of journalists is protected by the Press Law. Any assault on journalists is not only a crime but also a violation of democracy itself," he said, urging civil society groups to monitor the case so it does not stall.