YOGYAKARTA: A tragic incident has ignited public outrage in Indonesia as authorities investigate the death of 43-year-old Darso, who allegedly suffered severe beatings at the hands of traffic police officers in Yogyakarta.

The circumstances surrounding Darso’s death are deeply concerning. His body was exhumed on January 13 as part of an investigation launched by the Central Java Police, following a report filed by his family just days prior. Reports from local news outlet Kompas suggest that three police officers are currently under scrutiny, although their identities have not yet been released.

Details of the case reveal that on September 21, 2022, Darso was taken from his home in Semarang by six men claiming to be Yogyakarta Traffic Police. His brother, Tocahyo, reported that he was brutally beaten at a nearby soccer field, sustaining serious injuries to his head, stomach, and chest.

Two hours later, the same officers returned to inform Darso's wife that he had been admitted to Permata Medika Hospital. He spent three days in the ICU and was later moved to a regular ward, but despite this medical intervention, he tragically passed away in his home on September 29.

Adding to the complexity of the case, local media investigations revealed that Darso was previously involved in a traffic accident on July 12 involving a motorbike. After the accident, he had offered to assist the injured rider, leaving his ID card as a guarantee of his intent to return, as he lacked funds to cover the medical costs.

Amid the investigation, Yogyakarta police chief Aditya Surya Dharma clarified that the injured woman had sustained neck injuries and required a neck brace, a claim disputed by Darso's lawyer, who described her injuries as minor. This discrepancy raises questions about the motivations behind the police’s actions.

Darso's family is calling for the implicated officers to face charges of aggravated assault resulting in death, which could carry a maximum sentence of 15 years. They explained the four-month delay in reporting to police was due to repeated attempts by the officers to mediate the incident. They were offered a settlement of 25 million rupiah (approximately $1,534 USD), which they firmly rejected, emphasizing their desire for justice over financial compensation.

Darso's widow, Poniyem, articulated her stance against accepting a settlement, saying, “I refused because my husband told me to bring the case to justice.”

While the Yogyakarta Traffic Police Unit has refrained from commenting on the alleged settlement offer, spokesman Sujarwo urged for patience as they conduct a thorough investigation in conjunction with Central Java Police, stating: “We are fully cooperating to understand the chronology of the incident better.”

As investigations continue, this case has not only drawn public attention due to its shocking nature but also highlights ongoing concerns about police conduct and accountability in Indonesia. Will justice be served, or will this case fade into obscurity? Stay tuned as more details unfold.