Surabaya Police Hunt DPO in Debt Collector Assault Case

Surabaya police are actively pursuing one individual on the wanted list (DPO) in connection with an assault case where debt collectors allegedly attacked a member of a martial arts group. The incident, which occurred on Friday (July 31), involved debt collectors attempting to seize a vehicle, leading to a confrontation that resulted in injuries. Kombes Pol Luthfie Sulistiawan, the Head of Surabaya Police, stated that one suspect has been apprehended, while another remains at large. The primary suspect, identified as SL, surrendered to the police on Sunday (July 26). The police chief appealed to the public for any information regarding the whereabouts of the wanted suspect, assuring that swift action would be taken upon receiving credible intelligence. Meanwhile, the victim's legal representative, HM Rosadin, has urged for a comprehensive and final legal process against all individuals involved in the attack. He expressed concern that other suspects, identified through CCTV footage and evidence, might not be promptly processed, and that such violent actions by debt collectors could become a recurring issue in Surabaya. Rosadin questioned the apparent impunity of debt collectors in using sharp weapons and resorting to violence, raising doubts about the effectiveness of law enforcement in the city. The victim is currently in recovery and unable to resume normal activities. The incident reportedly began early Saturday (July 25) when SL, a debt collector, attempted to repossess a car with outstanding loan payments. SL, along with three associates, confronted the car's occupants and subsequently got into a physical altercation with four parking attendants who approached the scene. After an initial retreat, SL and his group returned approximately 20 minutes later with reinforcements. When denied entry into a nightclub, they allegedly retrieved bladed weapons from their car and attacked the parking attendants, causing severe injuries. Three individuals were reportedly injured in the melee, including two parking attendants and one of the attackers who was accidentally cut by a weapon. Following the assault, a large group of martial arts enthusiasts gathered at the debt collectors' office on Saturday night and into Sunday morning. Their attempt to reach the office was blocked by police, leading to protests where objects were thrown, resulting in injuries to one TNI soldier. Information Source: CNN Indonesia