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| Murder Case in Muara Komam Solved: Police Arrest Key Suspect After Months of Investigation. |
Balikpapan, East Kalimantan – After months of thorough investigation, police have finally cracked the murder case that shocked residents of Muara Kate Hamlet, located in Muara Langon Village, Muara Komam District, Paser Regency. East Kalimantan Police Chief, Inspector General Endar Priantoro, officially announced the arrest of one suspect during a press conference at the Rupatama Room, East Kalimantan Police Headquarters.
The murder occurred in the early hours of November 15, 2024, around 4:00 AM local time, at a protest post set up at a local resident's home—initial Y—opposing coal hauling activities in the area. The brutal attack left one man, identified as Russel, dead and another victim, Anson K, injured.
The case gained major public attention due to its link to ongoing resistance against coal mining operations in the region.
During the press briefing, East Kalimantan Police Chief Irjen Pol Endar Priantoro confirmed that investigators have identified and arrested a suspect with the initials MT (Misran Toni, alias Imis bin Enes).
"We have named MT as a suspect after confirming that at least two pieces of legal evidence were met. He acted as the main executor in the murder," said Inspector General Endar.
According to Director of General Criminal Investigation, Kombes Pol Jamaluddin Farti, the investigation involved a series of detailed steps, including:
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Scene investigation and forensic analysis
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Examination of 43 witnesses
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Exhumation of the victim’s body on July 11, 2025, at RS Kanudjoso Djatiwibowo Hospital
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Arrest of the suspect on July 15, 2025
These efforts eventually led to the capture of MT, who is currently being held for further questioning.
The motive behind the crime is still under investigation. Police are trying to determine whether others were involved and what pushed the suspect to carry out such a violent act—especially toward someone he reportedly knew.
“We’re still trying to uncover whether MT acted alone or with others, and what triggered him to commit murder,” explained Kombes Jamaluddin.
Authorities have secured a range of evidence believed to be linked to the crime, including:
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Blood-stained clothing belonging to the victim
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A sarong
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Seven mobile phones
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Administrative documents
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Clothing owned by the suspect
This evidence plays a crucial role in building the case and possibly uncovering additional suspects or motives.
MT now faces serious charges under Article 340 of the Indonesian Penal Code in conjunction with Article 338, which relate to premeditated murder. If found guilty, he could face:
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Death penalty
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Life imprisonment, or
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A minimum sentence of 20 years in prison
The resolution of this case highlights the commitment of East Kalimantan Police in ensuring justice is served, even in complex cases involving environmental conflict. It also serves as a grim reminder of how community tensions can escalate into tragic violence.
The public is urged to stay calm and allow law enforcement to continue their work. More updates are expected in the coming weeks as the legal process moves forward.
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