CPJ, partners call on Indonesian president to reopen investigation into journalist’s murder

The Committee to Protect Journalists and five other civil society organizations on Thursday called on Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to order police to reopen the investigation into the murder of journalist Rico Sempurna Pasaribu and his family, with a focus on the alleged involvement of a soldier named Corporal Herman Bukit.

The joint letter was sent following publication of an investigation last month by CPJ and Free Press Unlimited that uncovered major flaws in the murder case and revealed substantial evidence that Bukit should be thoroughly investigated and face justice accordingly for his alleged role in the murder.

Pasaribu, a journalist with news site Tribrata TV, was killed with his wife, son, and grandson in an arson attack in Kabanjahe, North Sumatra, on June 27, 2024. Before the arson, the 47-year-old received threats and demands he take down a series of stories he wrote about an illegal gambling operation allegedly run by Bukit, a soldier with the Army’s 125th battalion stationed in the town.

In the letter, the groups recommended that Bukit should be tried in civilian court for his alleged involvement; that prosecution of the case should be conducted in accordance with the appropriate sections of the Indonesian Press Law, which guarantees protection for journalists; and that Prabowo should ensure a more transparent and impartial justice system to end impunity.

The letter was also sent to the chief of the Indonesian National Police, the commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, and Commission 1 of the Indonesian House of Representatives.

Read the full letter here.