Two men who work as journalists in Batam, Riau Islands, allegedly experienced intimidation and persecution. The perpetrators were a number of security officers in an industrial area in Punggur Lake, Kabil.

The beating started when the two were investigating allegations of waste pollution from the area. Two journalists from the television media were injured. They claimed to have been hit by a motorbike.

The two of them reported this case to the Barelang Police, but there is no suspect yet. A victim, Darmawan Alamsyah alias Ateng said, on Sunday (11/9/2022), he and Irwanto were tracing a black liquid that was in the drainage in the Kabil area, Nongsa District.

The waste is thought to flow directly into the sea and pollute the environment. "The waste flows into the sea," said Ateng, Tuesday (13/9/2022).

After being investigated, it turned out that the waste came from a company in the vicinity of the location. While taking the documentation, they were suddenly approached by a man who claimed to be the security forces.

"He asked what he meant, 'we cover', then he called his five other friends," said Ateng. A number of security guards did not then intimidate and delete the photos and video recordings of the coverage. Both journalists refused.

"We were forced, then I was hit by a motorbike and I fell over, then they ganged up on us and took our cellphones," he said.

The two were then taken to the guard post. They were intimidated, held captive, and asked to delete the footage. Out of necessity, the two of them deleted the tape and finally released it.

"But before I delete the documentation, I have secured it and sent it to my colleagues, it will also be used as evidence later," said Ateng.