Indonesia urged to reopen probe into journalist's murder
JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 16 July 2026 | JP Asia Desk
Join our WhatsApp channel
A coalition led by CPJ and Free Press Unlimited urged President Prabowo to reopen the 2024 murders of journalist Rico Pasaribu and three relatives, citing investigative shortcomings and calling for a civilian probe if evidence links Army Corporal Herman Bukit.Summary
KABANJAHE, INDONESIA — A coalition of six press freedom and civil society organizations has called on Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to order a fresh investigation into the 2024 murder of journalist Rico Sempurna Pasaribu and three members of his family, arguing that significant evidence pointing to the alleged involvement of a soldier has not been properly examined.
The appeal, led by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), follows the publication last month of a joint investigation by CPJ and Free Press Unlimited that identified what the organizations described as major shortcomings in the original investigation and urged authorities to pursue a more comprehensive inquiry. The groups also called for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of the case.
Civil society groups seek renewed investigation
In a joint letter released Thursday, the organizations urged Prabowo to instruct police to reopen the case, focusing on the alleged role of Army Corporal Herman Bukit. According to the letter, Bukit should face a thorough investigation and, if sufficient evidence exists, be prosecuted in a civilian court rather than through a military judicial process.
The letter was also addressed to the chief of the Indonesian National Police, the commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, and Commission I of Indonesia's House of Representatives, reflecting calls for coordinated action across the country's civilian and military institutions.
Allegations linked to the journalist's reporting
Pasaribu, a reporter for Tribrata TV, was killed along with his wife, son, and grandson in an arson attack on June 27, 2024, in Kabanjahe, North Sumatra. He was 47.
According to CPJ and its partners, Pasaribu had received threats and demands to remove articles he had published about an alleged illegal gambling operation that they say was linked to Bukit, a soldier assigned to the Army's 125th Battalion in the area. The organizations contend that these allegations warrant renewed scrutiny by investigators.
The coalition also recommended that any future prosecution be conducted in accordance with Indonesia's Press Law, which provides legal protections for journalists, and called on the government to strengthen the transparency and impartiality of the justice system in cases involving attacks on media workers.
Broader concerns over impunity
The renewed appeal comes amid continuing concern among international press freedom organizations about impunity in attacks against journalists. Rights groups have long argued that credible investigations and accountability are essential to protecting media workers and maintaining public confidence in the rule of law.
While Indonesian authorities have previously pursued legal action in connection with the killings, the organizations behind the latest appeal say unanswered questions remain and that the investigation should be broadened to ensure all potential suspects and motives are fully examined.
WHY THIS MATTERS: The case highlights the continuing risks faced by journalists investigating alleged criminal activity and the importance of independent investigations when media workers are attacked. For news organizations, it also underscores the need for stronger protections for investigative reporters and greater accountability in cases where violence against journalists may involve powerful interests.
ATTRIBUTION: Reporting by JournalismPakistan, based on publicly available statements from the Committee to Protect Journalists and partner organizations (July 16, 2026) and information released in their joint letter calling for the investigation to be reopened.
PHOTO: By Febri Amar from Pixabay
Key Points
- A coalition of six press freedom and civil society groups urged President Prabowo to order a fresh investigation into the 2024 killings.
- A joint CPJ and Free Press Unlimited report identified major shortcomings in the original probe.
- Groups called for a focused inquiry on Army Corporal Herman Bukit and civilian prosecution if evidence warrants.
- The appeal was also addressed to the national police, armed forces commander, and House Commission I for coordinated action.
- Calls include demands for greater transparency, accountability, and protection for journalists and victims' families.
Key Questions & Answers
Who is asking for the case to be reopened?
A coalition of six press freedom and civil society organizations led by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Free Press Unlimited is calling for a fresh investigation.
Why do they want a new investigation?
The groups say the original probe had major shortcomings and did not properly examine evidence suggesting potential involvement of a soldier.
Who is the soldier named in the appeal?
The joint letter urges authorities to investigate Army Corporal Herman Bukit and, if evidence is sufficient, to prosecute him in a civilian court rather than a military process.
To whom was the letter addressed?
The letter was sent to President Prabowo, the chief of national police, the commander of the armed forces, and Commission I of the House of Representatives, seeking coordinated action.
Relevant Topics
Ask AI: Understand this story your way
AI EnabledDig deeper, ask anything — get instant context, background, and clarity.
Disclaimer: This feature is powered by AI and is intended to help readers explore and understand news stories more easily. While we strive for accuracy, AI-generated responses may occasionally be incomplete or reflect limitations in the underlying model. This feature does not represent the editorial views of JournalismPakistan. For our full, verified reporting, please refer to the original article.
