Friday, 19 June 2026
MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The Head of the North Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office, Harli Siregar, has decided to resolve a recent assault in Simalungun using a restorative justice approach. The decision followed a formal request from the Simalungun Prosecutor's Office.
Siregar led a case discussion on the restorative justice request on Monday, February 9, 2026, via Zoom from the second floor of the North Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office. Attending the meeting were Deputy Head for Criminal Affairs Jusrist Preciselly and other senior officials from the Criminal Law Division.During the session, the Simalungun prosecutor team presented a detailed account of the assault carried out by the suspect, Rainim Sinaga, against the victim, Lagini.
Assault Occurred During Traditional FestivalProsecutors reported that the incident took place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in Huta X, Nagori Bandar Tongah, Bandar Huluan, Simalungun. The victim, Lagini, was attending a community celebration where the suspect, Rainim Sinaga, was also present.
Tensions escalated during the traditional Batak Manortor dance when the perpetrator felt excluded. After the event, Rainim Sinaga struck Lagini with her bare hand, causing injuries. The victim subsequently filed a police report.The suspect was prosecuted under Article 351 Paragraph 1 of Law No. 1 of 1946, in conjunction with Article 466 Paragraph 1 of Law No. 1 of 2023 of the Indonesian Penal Code.
Restorative Justice Chosen to Resolve CaseThe prosecutors decided to use restorative justice after considering several factors. Rainim Sinaga admitted to the assault and voluntarily apologized to the victim's family. Humanitarian considerations also played a role, as the suspect is a homemaker responsible for caring for her children and grandchildren. Both the victim and the perpetrator agreed to reconciliation and committed to rebuilding their social relationship after the case was resolved. These agreements formed the foundation for resolving the matter outside of court.
High Prosecutor Praises Peaceful ResolutionHarli Siregar commended the families, law enforcement, and community for their commitment to reconciliation.
"The peaceful settlement was deliberate and sincere. It aligns with the objectives of law enforcement under Law No. 1 of 2023. The state now emphasizes dialogue over imprisonment to repair social bonds and restore balance in society," Siregar said.Rizaldi, Head of Legal Information at the High Prosecutor's Office, added that restorative justice reflects the positive impact of law on the community.
He explained that the process allows both parties to achieve mutual peace and strengthen social cohesion. It demonstrates that reconciliation can overcome revenge and hatred, which could otherwise strain social relationships in the long term. (IDNC)
