Brawl involving air rifle, weapons leaves 2 dead, 10 injured over Batam land dispute

A long-standing dispute over a plot of land on Setokok Island, Batam, culminated in a group brawl that has left two people dead.

At least 10 others were injured in the incident which occurred on Monday (Sept 14), reported Jakarta Post.

Videos circulating online show large groups of people marching together, many armed with makeshift weapons.

In total, about 300 people were involved in the altercation, according to local media outlet Kompas.

Jakarta Post reported that the disputed land measured 77ha.

Indonesian National Police posted an update on its website on Wednesday saying that they have identified three suspects.

A suspect, known as RS, is accused of aiming an air rifle at a victim and shooting at least eight projectiles, while another suspect, B, allegedly also used an air rifle.

The third person, SH, allegedly carried a sharp weapon and encouraged colleagues to resist and attack the other group that had allegedly challenged them.

Barelang district police chief Anggoro Wicaksono said weapons seized by officers include two air rifles and a spear made of wood.

Police investigations are ongoing.

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lim.kewei@asiaone.com