Efendi’s Legal Team: Let the Law Reveal the Truth, Not Public Opinion

Dilikkasus86.com – Kamis 16 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 regarding media reports surrounding the shooting incident in Air Sugihan District, Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) Regency, South Sumatra. The statement was released as an exercise of the right of reply and as a reaffirmation that the criminal justice process must be based on lawful evidence rather than narratives circulating in the public sphere.

According to the legal team, every citizen is constitutionally entitled to legal representation. However, public statements must be delivered with objectivity, prudence, and full respect for the presumption of innocence. They emphasized that the media should never become a platform for creating conclusions or public perceptions before the legal process has established the facts.

The lawyers specifically addressed allegations claiming that Efendi and his companions arrived at the scene carrying firearms and bladed weapons. They stated that such allegations remain unilateral claims that have not been substantiated by legally admissible evidence under Indonesian criminal procedure.

On the contrary, based on the official statements of Efendi as the victim, together with witness testimonies from Azazi, Syawal, and Riyanto, all of whom have been formally examined by investigators, each consistently stated that no member of Efendi’s group carried firearms or sharp weapons during the incident.

The legal team stressed that the case remains under active investigation and that conflicting accounts must be resolved through due legal process rather than through public opinion or media narratives. Material truth, they argued, can only be established through lawful evidence examined by investigators and, if necessary, by the courts.

They further explained that Indonesian criminal law recognizes the principle of actori incumbit probatio, meaning that the party making an allegation bears the burden of proving it. Therefore, any assertion concerning firearms, bladed weapons, threats, or other alleged circumstances must be objectively tested through investigation and judicial proceedings.

The legal counsel also emphasized that Indonesia’s criminal justice system is founded upon the principles of equality before the law, audi et alteram partem, and the contradictory process, guaranteeing every party the equal opportunity to present evidence and be heard before an impartial legal authority.

Regarding the claim of lawful self-defense under Article 49 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, the lawyers stated that whether the legal elements of self-defense are fulfilled is a matter exclusively for investigators, prosecutors, and ultimately the court to determine after examining all available evidence. It is not a conclusion that can be reached through public statements or media coverage.

The legal team also respectfully appealed to the Chief of the South Sumatra Regional Police (Kapolda Sumsel) to ensure that the investigation is conducted professionally, independently, transparently, and comprehensively.

They urged investigators to thoroughly uncover all facts surrounding the case, including determining whether any other individuals may have been involved in or responsible for the alleged shooting of Efendi, should such involvement be supported by legally admissible evidence.

«”We respectfully request the Chief of the South Sumatra Regional Police to oversee this investigation until it is fully resolved. If the investigation reveals evidence indicating the involvement of other individuals behind the alleged shooting of Mr. Efendi, we hope every responsible party will be identified and held accountable in accordance with the law. We are here solely to seek justice for our client through a fair, objective, and transparent legal process,” the legal team stated.»

The lawyers reaffirmed their confidence that law enforcement authorities will conduct the investigation professionally, independently, impartially, and in pursuit of the material truth.

They also called upon journalists and media organizations to uphold the principles of accuracy, verification, and balanced reporting (cover both sides) so that the public receives complete and objective information without prejudicing an ongoing legal process.

Meanwhile, when contacted by journalists via WhatsApp, Efendi, 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 law enforcement authorities will fully uncover the truth behind the alleged shooting against me. I believe investigators will perform their duties professionally, objectively, independently, and based solely on lawful evidence so that the real truth can be revealed,” Efendi told reporters.»

In closing, Efendi’s legal counsel reiterated that the rule of law must remain the highest 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, justice can only be achieved through an independent, transparent, and evidence-based legal process that guarantees legal certainty and equal protection before the law.

Red : David E, SE