Eka Yudha Saputra, Jakarta – The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) urged the police to release the residents of Rempang Island in Batam, Riau Islands, who were arrested during the clash with security forces on September 7, 2023.

"Komnas HAM demands the release of the detained residents," Komnas HAM chairman Atnike Nova Sigiro said in an official statement, on Friday, September 8, 2023.

Komnas HAM observed that the clash caused casualties, including women and children. Atnike lamented the incident and called for an end to the deployment of troops and repressive actions against the local people, and for dialogue to be prioritized.

"Komnas HAM called on the local government to carry out rehabilitation for people who have experienced violence and trauma, including children who need special treatment," Atnike added.

Police arrested eight residents of Rempang Island during a protest against the development of the Rempang Eco-City on Thursday.

The National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Ahmad Ramadhan said eight people were arrested for carrying sharp weapons. "Some were carrying slingshots, some were carrying rocks and other dangerous goods or objects," he said at the National Police Criminal Investigation Unit HQ on Thursday.

Ramadhan emphasized that they would be processed in accordance with applicable law. However, he did not specify whether those arrested would be named as suspects.

Ramadhan also denied that any residents or security forces were injured in the clash. There were also no fainting students and dead babies, he clarified, adding that the tear gas only caused temporary discomfort.

"The security measures taken by the police by firing tear gas caused temporary visual impairment. And the Riau Islands Police helped to bring the people to the medical team," said Ramadhan.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1769785/komnas-ham-urges-police-to-release-detained-rempang-island-resident