JAKARTA, INDONESIA (BERITAPOLITIK.ONLINE) — The Indonesian National Police confirmed that the legal process involving the suspect in the controversial Prabowo meme case was conducted following existing legal procedures.
The suspect, a student of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) identified by the initials SSS, was detained for allegedly uploading an indecent meme featuring the current President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, and the 7th President, Joko Widodo. The image circulated widely on social media and sparked a range of public reactions before SSS’s detention was suspended on Sunday, May 11, 2025.
“The entire legal process has been carried out procedurally, proportionally, and professionally. We ensured that SSS was accompanied by a legal team throughout, ensuring transparency and accountability,” said Brigadier General Pol. Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, Head of the Community Information Bureau of the National Police Public Relations Division, during a press statement on Sunday evening in Jakarta.
According to Trunoyudo, the case was initially reported to the authorities under police report number LP/B/159/III/2025 on March 24, 2025. Following this, the Directorate of Cyber Crime (Dittipidsiber) Bareskrim Polri began an investigation on April 7.
As part of the investigation, three witnesses were questioned, and five expert testimonies were obtained, including from legal, IT, and social media analysts. Additionally, investigators collected and analyzed electronic evidence from both the suspect and other sources through digital forensic examinations.
“On May 6, 2025, we proceeded with the arrest of SSS after establishing sufficient evidence linking him to the account that uploaded the offensive meme. He was suspected of violating the Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law,” Trunoyudo explained.
The charges against SSS included the alleged creation and dissemination of electronic information or documents with misleading content, which could be interpreted as offensive to public decency and morality.
SSS was officially detained on May 7, 2025. However, his detention was suspended just four days later, on May 11, after his legal team and family filed a formal request. Trunoyudo stated that the police took into account several humanitarian and educational considerations when granting the suspension.
“The decision was influenced by the suspect’s cooperative attitude, the sincere apology conveyed by both SSS and his family, and their commitment to ensuring that such actions would not be repeated. We also considered his ongoing education and potential,” he added.
Furthermore, SSS reportedly expressed his deep regret and apologized to President Prabowo Subianto, former President Joko Widodo, and the ITB academic community for his actions. He admitted that he acted impulsively and did not fully understand the consequences of his online behavior.
“The individual has acknowledged his mistake and promised not to repeat such conduct in the future,” said Brigadier General Trunoyudo.
The police emphasized that while the legal process must be upheld to maintain order and uphold national laws, they also recognize the need for restorative and educational approaches, particularly for young offenders who demonstrate remorse and accountability.
This case has reignited public discourse on the boundaries between freedom of expression and responsible digital behavior, especially among students and young internet users. Legal experts have called for improved digital literacy and clearer guidelines on the use of social media, while human rights groups have urged authorities to ensure that laws are not misused to suppress criticism or humor online.
As of now, the investigation continues under the supervision of Dittipidsiber Bareskrim Polri, and any further legal action will depend on the final evaluation of the case. However, the suspension of detention marks a moment of reflection on how Indonesia balances justice, education, and compassion in its legal system, particularly in an era of viral content and evolving digital norms.
