Pangkalan Lampam, Ogan Komering Ilir, KOTABARI.COM – A viral video showing the vandalism of the Pangkalan Lampam Police Station in Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) Regency by dozens of residents from Sunggutan Air Besar Village has been circulating widely on social media over the past few days. The video captures residents running frantically, loud screams from the crowd, and severe damage to the police station, including shattered glass.
The OKI Police Chief, AKBP Hendrawan Susanto, confirmed that six individuals have been named as suspects in the incident. “We have already detained six suspects. We identified them based on the video footage and statements from officers who were on duty at the time,” Hendrawan stated during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon (17/12/2024).
Hendrawan explained that the incident began during a drug raid conducted by the OKI Police Narcotics Unit in Sunggutan Air Besar Village. At the time, three individuals were at the scene, but one of them, believed to be a drug dealer, managed to escape. “There were actually three people at the first location, but the suspected dealer fled. We secured the two remaining individuals,” Hendrawan explained.
Following this initial operation, the Narcotics Unit continued its investigation elsewhere while seven police officers remained at the Pangkalan Lampam Police Station. Unexpectedly, hundreds of people suddenly stormed the station and began damaging property. “Suddenly, a crowd of hundreds of people arrived and attacked the station. Fourteen windows were broken, the TV and computer were damaged, and even the kitchen was completely destroyed,” said Hendrawan.
During the attack, the crowd also freed the two detained individuals by breaking into the detention room with a crowbar. “Yes, they broke the holding cell using a crowbar, and the detainees escaped,” he confirmed.
The incident also left a police officer injured after being beaten by the mob. “One of our officers was injured, with wounds to his arms, legs, and shoulders. However, after receiving treatment, his condition has improved. I visited him last night, and he’s recovering well,” Hendrawan added.
Despite the incident, AKBP Hendrawan affirmed that law enforcement against drug trafficking in the OKI region will continue. He emphasized that strict measures will be taken, following government directives. “We will not relent in our efforts. As instructed by Mr. Prabowo, drugs are no longer just enemies of society, but enemies of the nation and state,” Hendrawan asserted.
He further stressed that his team will pursue the two escaped suspects and ensure all perpetrators of the attack are held accountable. “We already have their identities. It’s only a matter of time before they are caught,” he concluded.
This incident underscores the importance of strengthening security measures and continuing strict enforcement against drug-related crimes to maintain peace and order in the community.