CITY OF MAKASSAR, KOTABARI.COM – The public is in an uproar over a case of sexual harassment committed by a police officer against a female detainee. The incident went viral after the victim, identified as FM, disclosed the details of the event to her partner, HE (29).
FM claimed to have been subjected to multiple instances of sexual harassment by a police officer named Brigadier SA. Not only did he engage in actions that demeaned her dignity, but Brigadier SA is also suspected to have been under the influence of alcohol during the course of his actions.
Brigadier SA, assigned to the Directorate of Detention and Evidence (Tahti) of the South Sulawesi Regional Police, is alleged to have exploited the female detainee for sexual acts involving the victim.
The incident has prompted strong reactions from various quarters. The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) expressed shock and regret over the incident. Poengky, a spokesperson for Kompolnas, condemned Brigadier SA’s actions, which he emphasized had tarnished the reputation of the police institution. He stressed that police officers like Brigadier SA should be safeguarding detainees and not exploiting them, especially in a sexual manner.
“If the perpetrator is proven guilty, they should face the maximum punishment under the applicable laws, including the Sexual Violence Act,” Poengky stated firmly.
Andi Rio Idris Padjalangi, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives, also denounced the incident. He asserted that actions like this amounted to an abuse of power by a police officer. Andi Rio called on the Internal Affairs Division (Propam) of the South Sulawesi Regional Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the case to protect the safety of other female detainees.
Furthermore, Andi Rio emphasized that the police’s duty is to provide education and protection to detainees, not to subject them to harassment. He stressed that the police should be role models and have a positive impact on detainees, helping them become better individuals upon their return to society.
Brigadier SA has been apprehended by the Propam of the South Sulawesi Regional Police. Kabid Humas Polda Sulsel, Commissioner Komang Suartana, confirmed the detention. The police are currently conducting a thorough investigation and obtaining statements from witnesses, including other police personnel present at the scene during the incident.
This case has caused shockwaves in society and has raised concerns about actions that tarnish the image of the police institution. All parties demand swift action against Brigadier SA if found guilty, to uphold the integrity and dignity of the police force and to ensure justice for the victim who has experienced this sexual harassment.