Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A tragic incident of police-on-police Shooting unfolded in South Solok, West Sumatra, on Friday, November 22, 2024. AKP Ryanto Ulil Anshar, the Chief of Criminal Investigation at the South Solok Police Department, was fatally shot by his colleague, AKP Dadang Iskandar, the department’s Head of Operations. The altercation reportedly stemmed from disagreements over an illegal mining arrest.
West Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Suharyono confirmed that the shooting occurred at approximately 12:15 a.m. “The victim was rushed to a local clinic but could not be saved,” he stated. Ryanto sustained two gunshot wounds to the face—one to the right temple and another to the right cheek—believed to have been fired at close range.
Chronology Police-on-police Shooting
The conflict began when Ryanto led a raid and detained a suspect involved in illegal sand mining. After arriving at the police station, Ryanto reportedly received a phone call from Dadang, who objected to the arrest. Tensions escalated, culminating in the shooting.
Witnesses said that as Ryanto processed the suspect in the Criminal Investigation Unit, gunfire erupted outside. Officers discovered Ryanto lying motionless, and Dadang was seen fleeing the scene in a police vehicle.
The weapon used was identified as a short-barreled pistol (HS: 260139). Investigators suspect the motive was personal resentment over Ryanto’s enforcement actions.
Immediate Response
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident. “This case must be resolved thoroughly—both criminally and ethically,” he declared. General Listyo emphasized that misconduct undermining the institution’s integrity would be met with severe consequences.
West Sumatra Police Chief Suharyono announced that Dadang would face immediate dismissal and legal prosecution. “The disciplinary and criminal processes are underway. Ethical violations of this magnitude warrant swift and decisive action,” Suharyono stated.
Broader Implications
The case has reignited discussions about firearm policies within the Indonesian police force. M. Nasir Djamil, a member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives Commission III, criticized lax controls over firearm distribution. “Periodic psychological and physical assessments for officers authorized to carry firearms are crucial,” he said.
Nasir also stressed that firearms should only be used in official capacities, not personal disputes. “This incident reflects deeper issues within the institution that require immediate reforms,” he added.
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A Call for Institutional Reform
The tragedy has highlighted systemic issues within Indonesia’s police force, including conflicts of interest and weak oversight in handling cases like illegal mining. Illegal mining activities are prevalent in many parts of Indonesia, often involving collusion between local authorities and mining operators.
This case is a stark reminder of the importance of institutional accountability. As investigations continue, the incident serves as a wake-up call for police reforms to prevent similar tragedies and restore public trust in law enforcement.
(Becky)
