Jakarta – Police have officially named JMH (31) a suspect following an incident where he allegedly assaulted employees at a gas station in Cipinang, East Jakarta, which went viral on social media. The confirmation came from Kombes Budi Hermanto, Head of Public Relations for the Greater Jakarta Metropolitan Police, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at approximately 10:10 PM local time, stemmed from a dispute over fuel purchases. According to authorities, JMH became enraged when station attendants refused to fill his Toyota Vellfire with Pertalite subsidized gasoline due to a discrepancy between the vehicle’s license plate and the barcode registered in the fuel subsidy system. This refusal triggered a violent outburst, resulting in injuries to three gas station workers.
“The suspect has been officially designated as a suspect,” Kombes Budi Hermanto stated. JMH now faces charges under Article 466 of the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) concerning assault, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to two years and six months or a fine of up to Rp 50 million, and/or Article 471 of the KUHP, with a potential sentence of up to six months imprisonment or a fine of up to Rp 10 million, according to authorities.
Details of the Assault and Investigation
Police have seized CCTV footage of the incident, as well as the Toyota Vellfire used by the suspect. The investigation revealed that JMH initially claimed to be a high-ranking police official in an attempt to coerce the gas station employees into providing the subsidized fuel. Yet, authorities quickly confirmed that JMH is a civilian and not affiliated with the police force. “From the examination, the person concerned is not a member of the Polri (Indonesian National Police). We emphasize that there is no involvement of police personnel in this incident,” Kombes Budi Hermanto clarified.
The three gas station employees – identified as LH, AM and AKA – sustained bruises to their faces and heads during the assault. One of the victims subsequently filed a police report with the Pulogadung Police Sector on February 23, 2026, prompting a swift investigation.
Suspect Apprehended and Motive Revealed
A joint team from the East Jakarta Metro Police Criminal Investigation Unit and the Pulogadung Police Sector apprehended JMH in the Rawalumbu area of Bekasi Timur on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at approximately 4:00 PM local time. He is currently being held at the East Jakarta Metro Police for further questioning.
Authorities state the motive behind the attack was JMH’s frustration at being denied subsidized fuel. “Because it did not comply with the provisions for filling subsidized fuel, the officer could not serve the filling. The rejection then triggered the suspect’s emotions to commit violence against three SPBU workers who were on duty at that time,” explained Kombes Budi Hermanto.
Police have also confiscated a pair of license plates, the Toyota Vellfire vehicle, video recordings of the assault, and the clothing worn by the victims as evidence in the case.
Kombes Budi Hermanto assured the public that the investigation is being conducted professionally and transparently. “Acts of violence against the public cannot be justified. We will take firm action against every legal violation without exception. The investigation process is carried out in accordance with procedures and applicable legal provisions,” he stated.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about access to subsidized fuel and the potential for conflict at gas stations as the government attempts to regulate distribution. The case is expected to proceed through the Jakarta Timur District Court in the coming weeks.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on ensuring a fair and just outcome for all parties involved. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and engage in constructive discussion in the comments section below.
