Sleman Police Chief Apology | Hogi Minaya Case

indonesian Police Chief Suspended Amidst Public Outcry Over Husband’s Arrest After Foiling Mugging

Indonesia is grappling with a complex legal and ethical dilemma following the suspension of Sleman Police Chief Commissioner Pol Edy Setyanto Erning Wibowo. The suspension stems from the controversial handling of the case involving Hogi Minaya, a man initially named a suspect after pursuing and confronting individuals who attempted to rob his wife.

The case ignited public debate and scrutiny from Commission III of the Indonesian People’s Representative Council (DPR), raising questions about the request of the law and the balance between victim and perpetrator. Hogi was charged under Article 310 paragraph 4 and Article 311 of Law Number 22 of 2009 concerning Road Traffic and Transportation,a move that many perceived as unjust given the circumstances.

Did you know? – Indonesia’s legal system often prioritizes establishing clear legal violations, even in self-defense scenarios. This can lead to outcomes that appear counterintuitive to public perception.

The situation escalated after the deaths of two individuals during the confrontation, prompting a deeper investigation into the events. According to reports,the Sleman Police focused on establishing legal certainty regarding these deaths,a strategy that ultimately led to the application of charges against Hogi.

During a Commission III working meeting on January 28, 2026, Commissioner Wibowo acknowledged the tough position faced by law enforcement. “That is the dilemma we feel, sir, to decide something when we stand two feet between the victim and the perpetrator,” he stated. He further explained that the police were focused on gathering evidence and clarifying the criminal acts involved, emphasizing that their role differs from that of a judge who determines punishment.

Pro tip – When facing a potential crime, Indonesian citizens should prioritize their safety and promptly contact the police. Attempting to apprehend suspects can lead to legal complications.

The police chief later issued a formal apology to Hogi Minaya, his wife Arsita Minaya, Commission III, and the indonesian public. “We apologize on this occasion if there was something wrong in our handling of it,” Wibowo said. He admitted that while the initial intent was to ensure legal certainty, the application of the specific articles against hogi may have been inappropriate.

The case highlights the challenges faced by Indonesian law enforcement in navigating complex situations where the lines between victim and perpetrator are blurred. The suspension of Commissioner wibowo signals a willingness to address public concerns and re-evaluate the handling of the Hogi Minaya case, perhaps paving the way for a revised legal approach that prioritizes justice and fairness.

Why did this happen? Hogi Minaya pursued and confronted robbers attempting to steal from his wife, resulting in the deaths of two suspects.Police initially charged Hogi under traffic laws related to causing a disturbance and potential harm during the pursuit. Who was involved? Key figures include Hogi Minaya, his wife Arsita Minaya, Sleman Police Chief Commissioner Pol edy Setyanto Erning Wibowo, and members of Commission III of the DPR. What was the outcome? Commissioner Wibowo was suspended due to public outcry and scrutiny over the handling of the case, and issued a formal apology. How did it end? While the legal proceedings against Hogi remain unclear, the suspension of the police chief indicates a potential re-evaluation of the charges and a move towards a more nuanced approach to similar cases in the future.