Indonesian Journalist and Family Killed in Apparent Arson Press Freedom Advocates Demand Justice

Indonesian journalist Rico Sempurna Pasaribu, aged 47, along with his wife, daughter, and grandson, tragically perished in a house fire in Kabanjahe, North Sumatra. Pasaribu worked with Tribrata TV and had recently reported on an illegal gambling ring allegedly linked to a local army officer.

The fire erupted around 3 AM. Witnesses reported seeing five unknown individuals near the home shortly before the blaze started, raising suspicions of foul play following Pasaribu’s investigative reporting on illegal activities involving military personnel . The journalist had previously received warnings from both military and police officials to retract his stories, a request he refused.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and a coalition of local press-freedom organizations have called on authorities to launch a full judicial investigation, citing evidence pointing to deliberate arson as retaliation for Pasaribu’s coverage . The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) also urged an independent inquiry to determine any involvement of senior military officials, noting that Pasaribu had taken personal safety precautions before the incident.

In early July, Indonesian police confirmed that the fire was a case of arson and arrested two suspects—identified only by initials RAS and YST—allegedly responsible for setting the blaze using fuel, based on CCTV evidence and witness accounts. Investigators are reportedly examining whether these actors were hired and are expanding the probe beyond the arrested suspects . However, Press-freedom groups continue to demand a transparent process, warning of possible official obstruction .

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay also condemned the killing, calling for a thorough investigation and accountability. Human Rights Watch and the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) echoed these demands, stressing the severity of this attack on press freedom.

Pasaribu’s killing marks Indonesia’s first suspected journalist murder that claimed multiple lives. It highlights serious threats to the press, especially those reporting on corruption and powerful interests. Advocacy groups warn: without impartial legal action and systemic reforms, journalists across Indonesia—particularly in regional areas—will remain at grave risk.