Social Media Sparks Inquiry into Ex-Marine’s Allegiance

A TikTok account, @zstorm689, recently ignited a controversy by posting images suggesting an individual formerly affiliated with the Indonesian navy (AL) is now participating in Russian military operations. The account featured two images: one depicting a man in a Russian military uniform and another showcasing an Indonesian Navy uniform, complete with the distinctive purple beret of the Marine corps.

Navy Identifies and Addresses Desertion

The Indonesian Navy has officially responded to the viral claims. According to first Admiral I Made Wira Hady, Head of the naval Information Office, the individual in question has been identified as Satria Arta Kumbara, a former member of the Marine Corps Inspectorate (Itkormar).

“Serda Satria Arta Kumbara NRP 111026 former member of Itkormar (Marine Corps Inspectorate). Desertion is starting from June 13, 2022 untill now,”
First Admiral I Made Wira Hady, Head of the Naval Information Office

Admiral Hady confirmed that Kumbara has been considered a deserter since June 13, 2022, for unauthorized absence from duty.

Legal Repercussions and Dismissal

Consequently of his desertion, Satria Arta Kumbara was discharged from the navy. The Jakarta Military Court II-08 conducted an in absentia trial, resulting in a sentence of one year imprisonment and subsequent dishonorable discharge. An in absentia trial occurs when a defendant is tried and sentenced in their absence.

The verdict against Kumbara has been finalized and carries full legal force. However, the Naval Information Office did not provide details regarding whether Kumbara served his prison sentence before allegedly joining the Russian military.

“The decision of the Dilmil II-08 jakarta-absence. (Against) (Against) concerned 1 year imprisonment and additional crimes were fired based on case decision No. 56-K/PM.II-08/al/IV/2023 dated April 6, 2023 and permanent legal deeds No. AMKHT/56-K/PM.II-08/Al/IV/2023 dated 17 April 2023,”
Kadispenal

Global Implications and Military Desertion Statistics

This incident raises questions about the potential for foreign fighters in ongoing global conflicts. While specific data on Indonesian military desertion rates is not readily available, military desertion is a global issue with varying causes, including dissatisfaction, psychological distress, or ideological shifts. For example, according to a 2023 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office, the U.S. military saw a slight increase in desertion rates compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Keywords

Keywords: desersi, tni angkatan laut, TikTok, Mantan Marinir, marinir gabung militer rusia, i made wira hady