In a tragic incident that shook the Way Kanan Regency in Lampung, three police officers lost their lives during a raid on a cockfighting gambling arena. The officers, identified as Iptu Lusiyanto, Bripka Petrus Apriyanto, and Bripda M. Ghalib Surya Ganta, were allegedly shot by members of the Indonesian Army (TNI), particularly by Peltu Lubis and Kopka Basar, who have since been arrested.
The raid occurred on Monday, March 17, 2025, at approximately 4:50 PM local time, in Kampung Karang Manik, Kecamatan Negara Batin, Kabupaten Way Kanan. According to reports from Polda Lampung, the officers were engaged by an unidentified person as they approached the gambling location, resulting in their immediate gunfire injuries.
Polda Lampung spokesperson Kombes Yuni Iswandari confirmed, “From the incident, three police personnel fell in the line of duty.” The victims were rendered critical injuries, sustaining gunshot wounds to the head. Their remains are currently en route to the Bhayangkara Polda Lampung Hospital for autopsy.
The involvement of TNI officers in the shooting has raised significant concerns and has drawn public attention, especially given the ongoing discussions regarding the revisions to the Military Law (Undang-undang TNI), which many fear may restore the military's dual function, a role that would grant them expanded authority and responsibilities.
In connection with the incident, social media saw a surge of activity as netizens shared a viral video showing Kopka Basar purportedly displaying a Pindad G2 Combat pistol, a military-grade weapon that civilians cannot legally possess. The video, which has vastly circulated, prompts serious questions about the appropriateness of such a display, particularly in light of the current climate surrounding military accountability in Indonesia.
Analysis by the account Random Warfare Worldwide revealed that the Pindad G2 Combat, which fires 9x19 mm rounds, is restricted to military personnel. The account commented, “Indeed, there are a few pistols that civilians can obtain and buy legally, including those with a 9x19 mm caliber, but I recall that G2 Combat is military-only.” This raises concerns about how a rank as low as Kopka is equipped with such firearms while on duty.
Furthermore, the account assessed the feasibility of delivering a precise shot to the head with a pistol, stating, “Shooting with a pistol and hitting the head all of that is extremely difficult unless the distance is less than 10 meters… or the person is very well-trained. It is easier to do it with a long-barreled rifle.” These comments underscore the difficulty of such marksmanship, especially in a high-pressure situation like a police raid.
The police raid was initiated with 17 personnel dispatched to the cockfighting arena to enforce the law against gambling, an activity that has historically been contentious and often goes unchecked in certain rural areas. The officers were immediately ambushed upon arrival, showing the danger they face during such operations.
In light of the situation, Kodam II Sriwijaya has begun an inquiry into the alleged involvement of TNI members in the shooting. Colonel Inf Eko Syah Putra Siregar from the Indonesian Military stated that if any members are found implicated, they will face sanctions. “We are waiting for the results of the investigation or further inquiry,” he told reporters.
The incident not only highlights the dangers police confront during operations against illegal gambling but also raises critical questions about accountability when military personnel are implicated in civilian law enforcement matters. The National Police have often faced scrutiny on their handling of crime, but this situation adds another layer of complexity amid calls for military reform.
Local residents have reacted with outrage over the violence, and many expressed their condolences to the grieving families of the slain officers. The shadow of military-police relations looms large, and with the potential for legislative changes on the horizon, discussions surrounding military involvement in civilian matters are becoming increasingly urgent.
This incident also shone a light on the broader context of gun control and military regulations within Indonesia, where disparities in armament access are a public concern. The fear among citizens is that illegal access to military firearms could lead to more tragic events like the one witnessed in Way Kanan.
As the investigation unfolds, the hope remains that justice will be served for the heroic officers who paid the ultimate price while serving their community. The urgency for reform within military and police interactions is palpable, setting the stage for further discussions on the need for proper checks and balances in Indonesia’s law enforcement frameworks.
