Malang’s police chief, Ferli Hidayat, was fired on Monday, with nine officers from the same police force suspended, after investigating riots that took place on Saturday at a stadium on the island of Java, which left 125 dead.
National Police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo announced this on Monday and the number of suspensions could rise, given an investigation into both the police action and the events.
“By order of the national police chief, nine police officers have been suspended and all are under investigation,” Prasetyo said at a news conference, noting that a total of 28 officers are being questioned and investigated.
Indonesia’s Security Minister, Mahfud MD, earlier this Monday called for police to “identify the perpetrators of the crimes”, in addition to many criticisms of police brutality and the actions of officers at the property.
The tragedy, one of the worst in football history, took place on Saturday night when about 3,000 fans stormed the field after the home side, Arema FC, lost 3-2 to rival Persebaya Surabaya.
Police used tear gas to contain angry supporters, but their action sparked panic, with thousands of people running for the exit.
Many people were trampled to death in the chaos of the stampede and the rioting spread to the outside of the stadium.
Indonesian authorities initially said 174 were killed in the riots, but the official number has since been revised to 125, although the number could be seriously injured.
The Indonesian championship was suspended and authorities ordered an investigation into the incidents.
Source: DN
