BANDA ACEH | INDATANEWS.COM - The Cyber Crime Unit of the Directorate of Criminal Investigation at the Aceh Regional Police (Polda Aceh) has officially named a man identified by the initial J from Bireuen Regency as a suspect in a defamation case involving the Provincial Secretary of Aceh, M. Nasir Syamaun. The case stems from social media content allegedly containing defamatory statements against the senior official.
The development was confirmed on Monday (May 11, 2026) in Banda Aceh by Fadjri, Coordinator of the Legal Team of the Aceh Provincial Government, who stated that the investigation is still ongoing.
Investigation Continues as Authorities Expand Probe
Read Also: Healthy Lifestyle Through Recreational Sports, Aceh Secretary Calls for Public Movement Culture Fadjri emphasized that the investigation is not limited to a single suspect. Authorities are also identifying other individuals who are allegedly involved in different capacities in the dissemination of the content.
"The process is still ongoing. Investigators have also identified other parties who may have been involved to varying degrees," Fadjri said.
INVESTIGATION PROGRESSES: Fadjri explains that the case remains under investigation, with additional parties identified as potentially involved. (PHOTO: Adli Safwan)
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According to Fadjri, J allegedly uploaded videos on TikTok and Facebook in January this year, accusing the Provincial Secretary of embezzling disaster relief funds amounting to approximately IDR 132 billion.
The content quickly went viral across social media platforms. However, authorities stated that the claims were not supported by any evidence or legal basis.
"The content contains insults, defamation, and unverified allegations without any legal foundation," Fadjri explained, adding that the case has now entered the criminal investigation phase.
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Following his designation as a suspect, J released a video statement in which he apologized and retracted his claims. He also requested that the complaint against him be withdrawn.
"I have hurt his feelings, and I sincerely apologize. I hope the Provincial Secretary will withdraw the report," J said in the video.
As of now, M. Nasir Syamaun has not publicly responded to the apology. However, Fadjri noted that the Provincial Secretary does not oppose public criticism in principle.
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The Aceh Provincial Government reiterated that public criticism is welcome as long as it is based on facts and delivered objectively. Authorities stressed that freedom of expression must not be used as a tool for defamation or character attacks.
"Criticism must be objective, fact-based, and free from defamation to avoid harming others' dignity," Fadjri concluded. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Adli Safwan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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