Eight teenagers face trial over alleged public facility damage before a demonstration at the South Sumatra Regional House of Representatives (DPRD). The session scheduled for January 5, 2026, at Palembang District Court was postponed due to the absence of a defense expert witness.
The presiding judge, Corry Oktarina SH, explained that the defense team could not present their expert as planned. Consequently, the court rescheduled the hearing for the following Monday to accommodate this critical testimony.
Expert Testimony and Defense Strategy
The defense aims to use an expert witness to clarify the actual sequence of events. According to defense attorney Dedi Irawan SH, the expert’s insights will challenge inconsistencies found in the official investigation report, known as the Berita Acara Pemeriksaan (BAP), and the prosecution’s demands.
Dedi indicated that the narrative constructed in the BAP does not align with the facts from the scene. He said, "The expert will focus on the initial moments of the incident, which differ significantly from the prosecution’s version."
In addition to the expert, the defense plans to present a witness possessing video recordings of the event. This footage is said to demonstrate that the accused did not participate in the alleged acts of throwing objects or damaging property.
Video Evidence and Its Impact
The defense lawyer emphasized that the video will be pivotal in proving the innocence of the defendants. "The footage clearly shows that the accused were inactive during the incident, conflicting with claims they engaged in destructive behavior," Dedi stated. The legal team intends to request the court to view this recording in subsequent sessions.
Charges and Defendants
The eight defendants, named Alfan Saputra, El Habib, Fadli Jangkaru, M. Nur, Fatahillah, M. Fadli, Syarifudin, and Jumadi, face multiple charges. These include:
- Article 170 of the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) concerning collective violence against persons or property.
- Article 160 KUHP on incitement.
- Article 406 KUHP related to the destruction of public facilities.
Though tried separately, their cases are interrelated, centering around the alleged damage to a police post and other public amenities near a housing complex shortly before a mass demonstration at the DPRD building in South Sumatra.
Court Proceedings and Legal Context
The court’s decision to postpone the hearing highlights the importance of expert opinions in validated fact-finding. The defense is urging the panel to evaluate evidence impartially, given the discrepancies they aim to expose.
This case underscores challenges often faced when demonstrations escalate into clashes and property damage. Ensuring accurate legal processes and thorough investigations protects the rights of individuals while maintaining public order.
The trial’s progression depends heavily on the forthcoming expert analysis and witness testimonies, which could influence verdict outcomes substantially. Both prosecution and defense are expected to refine their strategies as the court prepares to resume hearings next week.
