MEDIAISTANA .COM – 15 Juli 2026 -Ogan Komering Ilir, South Sumatra – The legal counsel representing Efendi Setia Budhi, namely Trifika Jaya Wangsa and Diandindrawan Ashandy, has issued an official clarification in response to media reports concerning the shooting incident in Air Sugihan District, Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) Regency. The statement was released as an exercise of the right of reply while emphasizing the importance of balanced reporting and respect for the ongoing legal process.
According to the legal team, every citizen is constitutionally entitled to legal representation. However, they stressed that public statements made in defense of any party must remain objective, prudent, and consistent with the legal principle of the presumption of innocence. Public narratives, they argued, must not evolve into assertions of fact before those claims have been tested through lawful judicial procedures.
The lawyers specifically addressed allegations reported in the media claiming that Efendi and his companions arrived at the scene carrying firearms and bladed weapons. They described those allegations as unilateral claims that, to date, have not been substantiated by legally admissible evidence under Indonesian criminal procedure.
In contrast, based on the official statements provided by Efendi as the victim, as well as witnesses Azazi, Syawal, and Riyanto during police examinations, all consistently stated that no member of Efendi’s group carried either firearms or sharp weapons at the time of the incident.
The legal team emphasized that the case remains under police investigation, meaning that disputed facts still exist and must be resolved through legal examination rather than public opinion.
“The material truth can only be established through lawful evidence presented during the criminal justice process—not through media narratives or public speculation,” the lawyers stated.
They further pointed out that Indonesian criminal law adheres to the legal doctrine of actori incumbit probatio, meaning that the party making an allegation bears the burden of proving it. Consequently, every assertion regarding firearms, bladed weapons, threats, or other alleged circumstances must be objectively tested through investigation and, if necessary, during a public court trial.
The legal team also underscored the fundamental principles of equality before the law, audi et alteram partem, and the contradictory process, all of which guarantee equal opportunities for every party to present evidence and be heard before an impartial judicial authority. Therefore, they argued that the media should not become a forum for shaping public perceptions that could prejudice an ongoing legal process.
Regarding claims of self-defense under Article 49 of the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP), the lawyers stated that such a legal defense constitutes a justification recognized by law, but whether its legal elements are fulfilled can only be determined by investigators, prosecutors, and ultimately the court after examining all available evidence. It is not a matter to be concluded through media statements or competing public narratives.
The legal team reaffirmed its confidence that Indonesian law enforcement authorities will conduct the investigation professionally, independently, impartially, and in pursuit of the material truth based solely on lawful evidence.
They also called upon journalists and media organizations to uphold the principles of accuracy, verification, and balanced reporting (cover both sides) in accordance with the Journalistic Code of Ethics, ensuring that the public receives comprehensive and impartial information.
Meanwhile, when contacted by journalists via WhatsApp, Efendi, who identified himself as the victim, expressed his hope that law enforcement authorities would uncover the full truth behind the alleged shooting against him.
«”I only ask for justice. I hope the authorities will fully uncover the truth behind the alleged shooting against me. I trust that law enforcement officers will carry out their duties professionally, objectively, and based on lawful evidence,” Efendi told reporters.»
Concluding the statement, Efendi’s legal counsel reiterated that the rule of law must remain the supreme guiding principle in resolving this case. They urged all parties to respect the ongoing investigation and allow legal institutions—not public opinion—to determine the facts. According to the legal team, only a fair, transparent, and evidence-based judicial process can guarantee justice, legal certainty, and equal protection under the law for every citizen.
Redaksi
Mediaistana.com
Redaksi David.E.SE
