Bandung Man Arrested for Sword Attack Over Minor Debt

In Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, a 30-year-old man known locally as a 'preman' (thug) attacked residents with a sword over a minor debt of Rp 150,000 (approximately $10 USD). The incident, which occurred in the Kiaracondong area, resulted in injuries to at least four people, including one man who sustained slash wounds to his arm and mouth. The victims underwent medical examinations at a hospital. The attack took place early Sunday morning (August 2nd) around 01:15 WIB on Jalan Sukamanah, Sukapura Village, Kiaracondong District, Bandung City. According to local media reports, the suspect and a friend approached the victim to collect money from the sale of a plastic wardrobe. However, the debt collection attempt escalated into a confrontation, leading to the suspect attacking the victim and other residents present. Video footage of the assault, recorded by witnesses, circulated on social media. Police responded to the scene after receiving reports of the attack, but the suspect and his accomplices had already fled. Based on information from residents, police were able to locate the suspect, who was found hiding at his parents' home not far from the scene. He was arrested less than 24 hours after the incident. "In less than 24 hours, we have secured the perpetrator along with the evidence," said Kapolsek Kiaracondong, Kompol Sumartono, on Monday (August 3rd). Sumartono stated that the motive for the attack was to collect the money owed from the plastic wardrobe sale, but the debt collection led to an argument and subsequently a fight. "Initially, these perpetrators were going to collect a debt or collect money from the sale of a plastic wardrobe. However, this was denied, and a fight ensued," he said. Sumartono mentioned that RH, the suspect, had previously undergone rehabilitation efforts with local authorities, including Babinsa (village non-commissioned officers) and Bhabinkamtibmas (community police officers), to ensure area stability. "Indeed. Actually, we have conducted rehabilitation efforts with Babinsa and Bhabinkamtibmas to keep the area conducive. But when it's the weekend, they tend to roam around," he said. Police are currently pursuing two other individuals who are believed to be accomplices of RH and allegedly involved in the group assault. "There are two more perpetrators whom we are still pursuing. Hopefully, it can be revealed soon," he added. For his actions, RH is charged under Article 262 in conjunction with Article 466 of the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) regarding assault and group assault, which carries a maximum sentence of seven years imprisonment.