The incident began with a dispute at a kiosk located in Liliba Subdistrict, RT 51/RW 09, Oebobo District, Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), involving an individual named Elo and the kiosk owner.
Some local youths intervened to reprimand Elo, who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol, urging him to stop creating a disturbance. Upset by the intervention, Elo returned to his home and recruited approximately six friends to confront those who had reprimanded him.
The group, led by Elo, subsequently searched for the victims and assaulted them, as well as other youths who were playing games at the residence of Frans Nafi.
Among the alleged perpetrators, Daniel Libing attacked Wem and Rian, both of whom were wrongfully targeted. Wem sustained severe head injuries, including lacerations and bruises, and abrasions on his knees after being dragged by the assailants. Rian also suffered multiple injuries.
Following the initial assault, the perpetrators falsely claimed to be police officers and took the victims to a police station. However, before reaching the station, one of the alleged assailants, identified as Daniel Libing, struck the victims on their heads with a stone.
Upon realizing that the victims were not their intended targets, Daniel Libing and his associates offered apologies. However, by that time, the victims had already sustained significant injuries.
According to a source who contacted this media outlet last night, it was revealed that Daniel Libing is employed as a civil servant in the Secretariat of the Provincial Legislative Council of NTT.
In addition to the assaults, the perpetrators also caused damage to several motorcycles at the scene.
The Kupang City Police are currently conducting an investigation into the case. The families of the victims have expressed hope that the police will thoroughly investigate the incident and deliver justice to those affected.
As of now, Gerindra NTT has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. Efforts to contact Nando Soares for clarification last night were unsuccessful.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of adhering to the rule of law and resolving conflicts through peaceful means. Violence is never a solution and often results in severe consequences.