Sunday, 12 July 2026
LABUHANBATU | INDATANEWS.COM – An amateur video circulating on social media has triggered public outrage after showing the alleged theft of 16 cattle belonging to a widow with the surname Sinaga in Sei Siarti Village, Labuhan Batu Regency, North Sumatra Province, on Saturday, June 27, 2026. In the footage, several men allegedly identified as members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) were seen being confronted by residents while transporting the livestock.
The video recorded by residents shows a tense situation at the scene as villagers confronted the alleged perpetrators. According to eyewitnesses, the group was relatively large and was even described by locals as "a company-sized unit." The situation quickly escalated into heated arguments and verbal confrontations in the middle of the road.
Residents expressed strong anger toward the group, criticizing the alleged actions and emphasizing that such behavior damages the reputation of state institutions, which are meant to protect the public.
One visibly angry resident was heard shouting: "State security forces are causing trouble here. They are stealing cattle. Are they being paid? Who? You are the ones stealing!"
After the video spread widely, it quickly went viral across multiple social media platforms. The publication sparked intense debate, particularly over the allegation that members of state security forces might be involved in the incident. Many users expressed outrage and demanded a thorough investigation.
The case drew further attention as the allegedly stolen cattle reportedly belonged to a widow from the local community. Residents said the woman, identified by the surname Sinaga, has been severely affected by the incident. Beyond the financial loss, the event has also shaken the sense of security within the village.
Authorities have confirmed that the case is currently under review. Head of Information for Kodam I/Bukit Barisan (Kapendam I/BB), Lt. Col. Inf. Sandy SIP, stated via WhatsApp that initial information was obtained from the Commander of the Military District Command (Dandim) in Labuhan Batu.
"The information I received from the Dandim Labuhan Batu indicates that the incident happened some time ago and is currently being investigated, particularly regarding whether TNI personnel were actually involved or not," Sandy said.
He also stressed that the military command would take firm action if any personnel were proven to be involved.
"If personnel are involved, Kodam I/BB will of course take appropriate measures to handle the case," he added.
Meanwhile, a statement from the police has not yet been issued. Attempts to contact Labuhan Batu Police Chief AKBP Wahyu Endrajaya SH SIK MSi by phone were unsuccessful. Written inquiries also remained unanswered at the time of publication.
As a result, public demand for an official clarification continues to grow. Many citizens are calling for transparency and swift handling of the case to prevent further speculation.
The incident continues to draw significant public attention amid allegations that state actors may be involved in the alleged livestock theft. The public is urging authorities to conduct a full and transparent investigation.
As of now, the situation in Sei Siarti Village remains calm, although public interest in the case remains high due to the viral spread of the video. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Jhonson Siahaan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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