Irfan Nahampun, a journalist working for local online media Lintangnews.com, received a phone call on December 29 from JP, also known as Nando, a suspected drug dealer that he was investigating. In the conversation, the suspect accused Irfan of reporting his crime to the police. By that time, the journalist was conducting a media investigation on drug-trafficking in the area.

During the call, Irfan asked the suspect to calm down and meet to talk about the issue, an offer that was rejected. Not long after, the suspect came to Irfan’s house and attacked and strangled him. He also repeatedly threatened to end his life.

Irfan’s mother, who was also at home, was injured during the fight and had to be rushed to a hospital. Police arrested the suspect and began investigations on December 30.

The AJI condemned the assault, emphasising the right of journalists to work freely, a right entrenched in the Indonesian Press Law. The AJI “demands the police to guarantee the safety of Irfan and his family and urges Lintangnews.com media to give him assistance.”

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: “It is crucial to deliver justice to Irfan and his family. Journalists must work in a safe environment and not fear threats when reporting. We wish Irfan and his family a rapid recovery”.