LAMPUNG, RAKYAT NEWS – Four terrorism inmates at the Rajabasa Class I Prison in Bandarlampung have pledged their allegiance to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). The inmates – M. Arifin, Teuku Maulizansyah, Afrizal, and Supriatin – took the oath on December 25, 2024, marking a significant milestone in their rehabilitation process.

The pledge of allegiance represents a crucial step in their reintegration into society. Kusnali, the Head of the Lampung Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, expressed hope that other terrorism inmates would follow their example. “We hope that the positive steps taken by these four prisoners will inspire others to do the same,” Kusnali stated.

In total, there are 16 terrorism inmates currently incarcerated in Lampung, spread across five Correctional Facilities (UPT). These facilities are located in Bandarlampung, Kotabumi, Gunung Sugih, and Kota Agung. Before these four inmates, seven others had already pledged their allegiance to the NKRI, showcasing an ongoing effort to rehabilitate those involved in terrorism.

The pledge ceremony was the result of close collaboration between Rajabasa Prison, the National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT), and Densus 88, Indonesia’s elite counter-terrorism unit. Kusnali emphasized that the success of the ceremony was made possible by the intensive efforts of all involved parties in the rehabilitation and guidance of these inmates.

He further extended his appreciation for the ongoing efforts by these agencies in helping to reshape the perspectives of terrorism inmates. “I would like to thank everyone involved in the rehabilitation process. It’s a collective effort, and I believe this could be an important step in our journey to prevent terrorism,” Kusnali remarked.

Saiful Sahri, Head of Rajabasa Prison, also shared his gratitude for the success of the rehabilitation programs. “This is a positive development for the prisoners involved,” Sahri said. He highlighted that the pledge was a crucial step for the inmates to become better individuals and stronger citizens who uphold the values of the nation.

Saiful Sahri also expressed his hopes for the future, stating that the pledge represents not just a commitment to the state, but also a new beginning for the inmates. “We hope that they can remain steadfast in their commitment and continue to grow into better people. This is the beginning of a positive journey for them,” Sahri concluded.

The successful oath-taking event at Rajabasa Prison is part of a broader rehabilitation program aimed at encouraging former extremists to reintegrate into society as law-abiding and patriotic citizens. The hope is that these efforts will help reduce the risk of radicalization and contribute to a more peaceful society. (Uki Ruknuddin)