Police in Batam Investigate Fatal Stabbing Involving 25 Wounds

BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM - Batam Kota Police have arrested a 39-year-old man identified by the initial M in connection with the death of a man identified as H, who suffered 25 stab wounds at a rented room in the Ruko Niaga Mas commercial complex, Teluk Tering, Batam Kota district, Batam, Riau Islands province.

Batam Kota Police Chief AKP Benny Syahrizal outlined the case at a press conference on Monday, 26 October 2026. He explained the sequence of events, the arrest of the suspect and the evidence seized by investigators. Also present were Barelang City Police public relations chief AKP Budi Santosa and Batam Kota Police deputy chief AKP Yustinus Halawa.

The incident occurred at around 2 pm local time on Sunday, 25 October 2026, at Block A, No. 11, Ruko Niaga Mas. Police believe an argument between the victim and the suspect escalated into a violent confrontation that ended in the victim's death.

Dispute Over a Suitcase

According to preliminary investigations and witness statements, the incident began when a woman identified by the initials NA contacted the suspect to collect her suitcase, which was in his room. The victim arrived at the location at around 2.15 pm, leading to an argument with the suspect.

The dispute reportedly turned physical, with the victim allegedly striking the suspect on the back with a motorcycle helmet. The situation escalated when the victim drew a knife from his waistband, triggering a struggle over the weapon.

Police said the suspect allegedly seized the knife and repeatedly stabbed the victim in the back. He is also suspected of striking the victim with a piece of timber and continuing the attack until the victim stopped moving. The victim died from 25 stab wounds.

Investigators are examining witness accounts and other evidence to establish the precise sequence of events and the circumstances surrounding the death.

Suspect Arrested and Evidence Seized

Police began investigating after receiving a report of a knife-related altercation at the commercial complex through the 110 emergency hotline at around 3 pm on Sunday, 25 October.

Officers from the Batam Kota Police criminal investigation unit attended the scene, conducted initial inquiries and secured the suspect before taking him to the police station for questioning.

Items seized as evidence include a knife with a wooden handle, a USB drive containing closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, a piece of timber, the victim's clothing, a red helmet and bags believed to belong to the victim and suspect. Investigators also secured the door to the rented room and two mobile phones, one belonging to each man.

Police are reviewing CCTV footage, witness statements and the physical evidence to reconstruct the incident and establish the suspect's alleged role.

Possible Personal Grudge Under Investigation

Police suspect that personal hostility may have contributed to the incident. According to preliminary findings, the suspect was allegedly angry with the victim for repeatedly insulting, shouting at and verbally abusing him. Investigators are continuing to examine this possible motive.

The suspect faces allegations under Article 458(1) and/or Article 468(2) of Indonesia's Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Criminal Code. The case remains under investigation, and the suspect's criminal responsibility will be determined through the legal process.

Batam Kota Police Chief AKP Benny Syahrizal urged residents to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid violence. He also encouraged the public to report security disturbances or incidents requiring police intervention through the free, round-the-clock emergency hotline 110.

Police said the investigation would continue to establish the full circumstances of the incident and ensure the case is handled in accordance with the law. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Dalil Harahap | EDITOR: Fik Sagala

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