BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM ~ Police in Batam have arrested a 44-year-old man suspected of spreading hate speech targeting the Malay ethnic group on social media. The arrest was carried out by investigators from the Barelang Police Criminal Investigation Unit following public reports regarding a controversial Facebook post.
Public Report Triggers InvestigationThe case emerged on April 15, 2026, when a 44-year-old resident received a screenshot of a Facebook post shared in a group called "Wajah Batam." The post allegedly contained offensive and provocative remarks directed at the Malay community.
The individual, along with a witness, promptly reported the content to the police. Authorities immediately launched an investigation to identify the account owner behind the post.
RESPONSIBLE SOCIAL MEDIA USE: Barelang Police Chief, Kombes Pol Anggoro Wicaksono, urges the public to use social media responsibly. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Arrest in Batu Ampar Area
On April 16, 2026, police arrested a suspect in the Bukit Senyum area, Batu Ampar District. During the operation, officers also encountered two additional individuals suspected of drug use, who were later handed over to the narcotics unit.
Further investigation led to the arrest of another man, aged 45, who was identified as the actual operator of the Facebook account involved in the case.
Fake Account and Digital EvidenceAccording to police findings, the suspect created a fake Facebook profile under the name "Yandra Yanda," using the profile photo of the first arrested individual to disguise his identity. Authorities stated that the motive stemmed from a personal dispute and revenge, while the choice of ethnic targeting was considered spontaneous.
Investigators also seized a mobile phone and digital evidence linking the suspect to the Facebook account.
LEGAL CONSEQUENCES: The suspect faces a potential prison sentence of up to three years under Indonesian law. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Legal Action and Police Warning
Police said the incident had caused public unrest, particularly among the Malay community in Batam. The suspect is now facing prosecution under Indonesia's criminal law provisions.
He could face up to three years in prison under the country's revised criminal code for spreading hate speech online.
Authorities have urged the public to use social media responsibly and avoid sharing or amplifying content that could incite hatred or social division.
(IDNC)REPORTER: Dalil Harahap | EDITOR: Fik Sagala