Serang, Banten | December 20, 2023 – Human rights activist Julius Ibrani praised the Banten High Prosecutor’s Office for halting the prosecution of Muhyani (45), a goat farmer in Serang, Banten, who acted in self-defense against a thief attempting to steal his livestock, resulting in the thief’s death.
The Letter of Termination of Prosecution (SKP2) for Muhyani was officially handed over by Banten Chief Prosecutor Didik Farkhan Alisyahdi on Monday (December 18, 2023). The decision is seen as a progressive step aligned with principles of justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Julius Ibrani, Chairman of the Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association (PBHI), emphasized that this case should serve as a model for law enforcement in handling similar situations. “We commend the Prosecutor’s Office for stopping the prosecution. Muhyani’s actions were clearly lawful self-defense under Indonesian law, aimed at protecting his property and life from criminal threats,” he stated during a press briefing in Jakarta on Tuesday (December 19, 2023).
Julius further explained that Article 49 Paragraph (1) of the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) guarantees citizens the right to self-defense (noodweer) against threats to their person, others, or property. “This case reminds us that law enforcement must consider the holistic context, not just the outcome. Victims like Muhyani, who face criminal threats, should not be criminalized themselves,” he asserted.
He also stressed the importance of preventive measures by security authorities to reduce similar crimes. “Beyond legal resolution, there must be efforts to enhance surveillance and legal assistance for communities, especially in conflict-prone areas like farming regions,” Julius added.
The Banten Prosecutor’s Office’s decision is expected to set a positive precedent in Indonesia’s justice system, particularly in safeguarding the rights of crime victims who act within legal boundaries. Julius and PBHI remain committed to advocating for legal reforms focused on substantive justice rather than mere procedural compliance.
Case Background
Muhyani, a goat farmer in Serang, was reported to police in October 2023 after an incident where he defended his livestock from a thief. Following a thorough investigation, prosecutors concluded that Muhyani’s actions did not exceed reasonable limits of self-defense. The SKP2 reaffirms that the law should protect victims, not burden them with disproportionate legal processes.
Featured Image from: https://www.instagram.com/kejarikabupatenmalang/p/C1Vp4EpyY3Y/?img_index=2
