Punk Band ‘Sukatani’ Apologizes After Protest Splash Paint Vandalism Targets Police Stations
In a recent incident in Purbalingga regency, unidentified groups of individuals spray-painted several buildings, including police stations and the regional representative council (DPRD) building. The graffiti featured red and black paints with the letter A encircled, a symbol often linked to anarchism. Spray-painted phrases like “MERAH #SUKATANI” (Red #Sukatani) were scattered across the buildings, suggesting a protest message.
Sukatani’s Song ‘Bayar, Bayar, Bayar’ Sparks Controversy
The vandalism was associated with a punk band from the regency called Sukatani. They posted a video on their Instagram account on Thursday, apologizing for their song, “Bayar, Bayar, Bayar” (Pay, pay, pay) from their 2023 album Gelap Gempita. The song targeted police officers for alleged misconduct, such as bribery and extortion.
Lyrics of the song translate to provocative statements like, “Reporting a lost item? Pay the police! Want to become a police officer? Pay the police!” Such harsh criticism towards law enforcement agencies sparked both support and backlash.
In the video, Sukatani apologized to National Police chief Gen. Listyo Sigit Prabowo and other officials. They also announced the removal of the song from all digital platforms and urged the public to delete any copies featuring “Bayar, Bayar, Bayar.” Band members, guitarist Muhammad Syifa Al Ufti and vocalist Novi Citra Indriyanto, revealed their true identities for the first time. Normally, they perform masked, using the stage names Alectroguy and Twister Angel.
Sukatani’s Protest Music Garners Widespread Attention
The controversy caught public attention, with artists and netizens supporting the band on various social media platforms. Protest chants of the song were heard during significant events like the Kamisan silent protest in Jakarta and Indonesia Gelap (Dark Indonesia) rallies in Jakarta and other regions. These movements were triggered by recent policies from President Prabowo Subianto’s administration.
Supporters Claim Police Intimidation
Sukatani supporters accused the police of pressuring the band members to issue an apology video. They believe the fear of retaliation forced the band to comply with the unfriendly requests.
National Police chief Gen. Listyo Sigit Prabowo clarified that the apology video was a case of “miscommunication” and reasserted that the National Police does not reject criticism and was committed to reviewing the force’s weaknesses.
Police Spokesperson Denies Intimidation Claims
Emphasizing the rejection of any accusations, Central Java Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Artanto mentioned that certain investigators had met Sukatani members in Banyuwangi, East Java, while they were traveling back from a performance in Bali. Artanto vehemently denied any intimidation attempts, maintaining that he was unaware of the video’s creation.
Human Rights Groups Demand a Thorough Investigation
Human rights advocates urged the National Police to thoroughly investigate the events surrounding the apologetic video by Sukatani. They argued that such a statement would not be made without pressure or coercion. Given the sensitive nature, an independent investigation is seen as essential to understand the full circumstances.
The complex and contentious situation highlights the ongoing tension between artistic expression and law enforcement, especially when critical voices challenge official practices and actions.
Conclusion
The case involving punk band Sukatani and its confrontational song against police corruption presents a profound debate about free speech and accountability in law enforcement. As the controversy unfolds, questions about the band’s impacts on local politics and public perception of law enforcement continue to resonate.
This incident underscores the necessity for open dialogue between citizens and law enforcement, aiming for mutual respect and understanding amidst differing viewpoints.
Your Turn
What do you think about such incidents of artistic expression and their impact on social and legal structures? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more insightful updates and analyses.
Share this article on your social media accounts to spread the word and engage in more conversations. Help us grow our community and encourage thoughtful discussions.