BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM – The Barelang City Police (Polresta Barelang) has issued an official clarification following reports circulating in several online media outlets alleging that officers intimidated journalists during a World Press Freedom Day event in Batam. The event, organized by the Independent Journalists Alliance (AJI) Batam, took place on Monday, May 4, 2026.
The Deputy Head of Investigation Unit 3 of the Public Order and Security Intelligence Division (Sat Intelkam) of Polresta Barelang stated that the police had received an official notification regarding the planned event on April 30, 2026.
Initially, the gathering was planned as a public rally in front of Batam City Hall with approximately 50 participants. Muhammad Syaban was appointed as the event coordinator.
Read Also: Illegal Subsidized Fuel Scheme Busted in Batam Following coordination between police and organizers, both parties agreed to modify the format. The activity was changed from a rally into a commemorative event without protest elements. The location was also relocated to the South Gate of Alun-Alun Ungku Putri in Batam Center, with attendance limited to 30–50 participants.
Venue Changes During the Event
During the event on May 4, organizers informed authorities of a venue change to the Batam City Council building due to bad weather. Police accommodated the adjustment as long as previously agreed conditions were maintained.
However, the venue was later moved again back to Batam City Hall without prior agreement. Police officers subsequently approached the location to seek clarification from AJI Batam chairman Yogi Eka Sahputra.
Read Also: Bengkong Police Arrest Motorcycle Theft Suspect in Batam Housing Complex "Our officers only came to ask why the venue no longer matched the earlier agreement," the deputy investigation head explained.
Yogi later confirmed that the event was nearing completion and would be closed with a collective prayer. The activity then proceeded in an orderly manner.
Police Deny Intimidation Claims and Call for Caution
Polresta Barelang firmly denied any allegations of intimidation, stressing that officers were present solely to ensure security and orderly conduct of the event.
Read Also: Police Arrest Suspect in Alleged Child Sexual Misconduct Case in Bengkong, Batam Police Chief Kombes Pol Anggoro Wicaksono reaffirmed the institution's commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression within the framework of applicable laws.
"If any mistakes are found from our personnel, we will take firm action," Wicaksono stated.
Public Relations Head Iptu Budi Santosa, urged the public to verify information before sharing it and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports.
"We ask the public not to quickly believe information before it is officially confirmed," he said.
Read Also: AJI Demands End to Censorship and Self-Censorship in Indonesian Media The police concluded that the entire World Press Freedom Day commemoration on May 4, 2026, proceeded peacefully, safely, and in an orderly manner. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Dalil Harahap | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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