In today’s verdict, Navy officers Klk Bah Bambang Apri Atmojo and Sertu Bah Akbar Adli received life sentences and military dismissal for premeditated murder and evidence tampering. Sertu Kom Rafsin Hermawan got four years for assisting in evidence concealment, with all three stripped of their ranks.

The case fits a disturbing trend of military-related violence in early 2025. Just weeks after the Tangerang shooting, an Army soldier allegedly murdered his girlfriend in South Tangerang. In March, a Navy member fatally shot a car salesman in Aceh, while two military personnel were detained after three police officers died during a Lampung raid.

Amnesty’s 2024 records show 55 extrajudicial killings, mostly by security forces. The organization warns that without reform, Indonesia risks normalizing a justice system that favors military personnel over civilians.

“Today’s verdict should be a turning point,” Adiwena stated. “We urge the government and House of Representatives to prioritize amending the Military Tribunal Law before more lives are lost to this flawed system.”

The proposed reforms would align Indonesia’s military justice with international standards while ensuring all citizens face equal justice, regardless of their status or affiliation. Amnesty International continues to monitor military accountability issues across the archipelago nation. (Uki Ruknuddin)

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