Palembang, KOTABARI.COM – A tragic murder case has come to light in Palembang, South Sumatra. Anton Eka Saputra, a cooperative employee, was found dead, encased in cement in a water drain behind a distro owned by Antoni, a local distro boss. The incident involved three perpetrators: Antoni, Kevin (Antoni’s wife’s nephew), and Pongky (Kevin’s friend).
Motive for the Murder
The case began with a debt dispute. Antoni owed Rp 5 million to the cooperative where Anton worked. On Saturday, June 8, 2024, Anton visited Antoni at his distro on Jalan Dahlan HY, Karya Baru Village, Alang-Alang Lebar District, to collect the debt. However, the debt had ballooned to Rp 24 million due to accumulating interest, causing Antoni to feel deeply resentful and disappointed. “The debt had increased to Rp 24 million due to interest, which led to disappointment and eventually a heated argument that resulted in assault and murder,” said Palembang Police Chief Kombes Pol Harryo on Monday, July 1, 2024.
Chronology of the Murder
The day before the murder, Antoni contacted his nephew Kevin, explaining his debt problem and inviting Kevin to help him kill Anton. Kevin agreed and brought along his friend Pongky.
On Saturday morning, Kevin and Pongky visited Antoni’s distro around 10:00 AM, posing as customers to avoid suspicion. When Anton arrived, Antoni engaged him in conversation and invited him to sit down. As Anton took out documents from his bag, Antoni signaled with a nod and a wink.
Receiving the signal, Pongky pulled out a wrench from his clothing and struck the back of Anton’s head, causing him to collapse immediately. “With one blow from Pongky, the victim fell instantly,” said Palembang Police Chief Kombes Pol Harryo. Kevin then took over, using a wire to strangle Anton and repeatedly striking his head. Antoni also joined in to ensure Anton was dead.
Body Encased in Cement
After confirming Anton’s death, the three perpetrators carried his body to the back of the distro. They placed his body into a water drain and covered it with cement to hide their crime.
This case highlights how resentment and anger can lead to heinous acts. The police are continuing to investigate to bring justice to the victim and his family.