Jakarta, LiterasiHukum.com – The Jakarta Metropolitan Regional Police (Polda Metro Jaya) is intensively examining all staff of the Lokataru Foundation, including legal advisors and even security guards and interns, as witnesses in the alleged incitement case involving the Executive Director of Lokataru, Delpedro Marhaen, and five others. So far, 12 staff members have been questioned by investigators. The Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD), which is assisting Delpedro cs, "strongly suspects" that this action indicates police uncertainty about the initial charges. "Because in the latest developments, all Lokataru staff and interns are also being examined," said TAUD representative, Muhammad Fadhil Alfathan, on Tuesday (16/9/2025). More worryingly, one of the legal advisors who is part of TAUD, Iqbal Ramadhan, is also scheduled to be examined as a witness. The summons for Iqbal was received directly by him at the Jakarta Metropolitan Police Headquarters on September 12, while he was assisting with the examination of other Lokataru staff. The examination of legal counsel raises serious questions about potential obstacles to access to legal assistance, which is a basic right of every citizen.

Allegations of Incitement and Digital Evidence

Delpedro Marhaen and five other suspects were arrested on charges of provocation in demonstrations that took place on August 25 and 28, 2025. They are accused of inciting the masses to act anarchically during the protests. One of the uploads used as evidence by the police is a photo from the social media account @lokataru_foundation. The upload contains information about a complaint post for students who want to or have participated in demonstrations, with the message "Are you a student? Want to demonstrate? Already demonstrated? Threatened with sanctions? Or already sanctioned? We'll fight together! #dontbeafraid". The upload also includes a hotline number for complaints about sanctions. The six suspects are subject to multiple articles, namely Article 160 of the Criminal Code (KUHP) concerning incitement, and/or Article 45A paragraph 3 juncto Article 28 paragraph 3 of Law Number 1 of 2024 concerning Electronic Information and Transactions (UU ITE), and/or Article 76H jo. Article 15 jo. Article 87 of Law Number 35 of 2014 concerning Child Protection. The application of child protection articles shows the investigators' focus on the alleged involvement of students in the action. This case highlights again the debate regarding the boundary between freedom of expression and alleged incitement, and how law enforcement should ensure that the basic rights of citizens are maintained in every investigation process. A thorough examination of Lokataru staff, including legal counsel, will be a crucial point in determining the direction and validity of the charges against Delpedro cs. News Source: This article is the result of paraphrasing and analysis of news reported by Tempo.co on September 16, 2025.