Bali Truck Driver Set Ablaze by His Own Boss Over Fuel Payments

A horrific incident has unfolded in Bali, Indonesia, where a 21-year-old truck driver, identified by the initials GS, was allegedly set ablaze by his own employer, I Putu CP (37), following a dispute over fuel payments. The victim sustained severe burns covering 68% of his body and is currently in critical condition. The brutal act occurred on Friday, September 18, at the victim's residence in Muncan Village, Selat District, Karangasem Regency. According to Kasi Humas Polres Karangasem, Ipda I Nengah Artono, the incident stemmed from an argument where I Putu CP accused GS of not paying the correct amount for fuel. The confrontation escalated, leading the employer to allegedly set the driver on fire. I Putu CP has since been arrested and charged as a suspect. He faces charges under articles 467 paragraph (2) and 466 paragraph (2) of the Criminal Code concerning premeditated assault resulting in severe injury, with a maximum sentence of seven years imprisonment. Meanwhile, GS remains in the ICU Burns Unit at RSUP Prof Ngoerah Hospital in Denpasar, battling for his life. Medical professionals described the burns as ranging from second-degree to third-degree, with clothing having adhered to his skin due to the severity. Doctors have indicated the presence of inhalation trauma, a serious complication from breathing in smoke and soot, which significantly increases the risk of mortality. "Burns over 40 percent coupled with inhalation trauma theoretically have a 300 times higher risk of death. The patient may require 10 to 12 surgical procedures if he successfully passes the first 14-day critical period," stated Dr. Agus Roy Rusly Hariantana Hamid, a plastic surgery specialist. Adding to the tragedy, GS's family is burdened by overwhelming medical expenses. The victim's uncle, I Nengah Sridana, revealed that hospital bills for GS as a general patient have already reached IDR 63 million (approximately USD 4,200). Crucially, these costs are not covered by public health insurance (BPJS Kesehatan) because GS is a victim of a criminal act. While the perpetrator's family initially promised to cover medical costs, they reportedly backed out when the first bill of IDR 19 million (approximately USD 1,260) was issued. "The perpetrator's parents stated they couldn't afford it. The victim's family is very poor; his parents are farmers and snack sellers, and GS was the sole breadwinner," Sridana explained. The family is now relying on donations to cover the extensive treatment. Despite accepting an apology from the perpetrator's family, Sridana emphasized the need for justice to be served through the legal system. Information Source: CNN Indonesia