Violence is Viewed as Normal, Children and Adolescents Are Vulnerable to Become Victims

Youth and child violence is increasingly prone to occur, including on social media.

KOMPAS

Controversy over the film Vina's murder in Cirebon and the mystery of the three perpetrators who are still at large.

The sad trail of teenagers and children as victims and perpetrators of crime is increasingly vulnerable. The habit of displaying graphic violence, including on social media, contributes to this.

The murder and rape of Vina, a teenager from Cirebon, West Java, on August 27, 2016, has resurfaced eight years later. The screening of a feature film based on the story has sparked renewed interest in the case.

The perpetrators were a motorbike group. Eight were caught. The other three are still at large now.

Before the incident, some of the perpetrators, who were still teenagers, were said to be active on social media. There, various acts are often exhibited.

KOMPAS/FABIO MARIA LOPES COSTA

The Director of General Crime Investigation of West Java Provincial Police, Commissioner Surawan, was met in West Bandung Regency, West Java, on Tuesday (April 16, 2024).

The Director of General Crime Investigation of West Java Police, Commissioner Surawan, said that three fugitive perpetrators are still being pursued. Information about their whereabouts was collected from the captured perpetrator and their families.

The case then reminds us of the danger of crimes involving teenagers. The perpetrators tend to be easily provoked. Social media has been chosen as a place to display violence.

In July 2023, for example, dozens of students were involved in a brawl in Bekasi, West Java. One person died and another was injured. The brawl was triggered by challenges exchanged through social media messaging applications.

Also read: The phenomenon of youth brawls since decades ago, what is the solution?

The brawl occurred on Monday (24/7/2023) evening in Pengasinan Village, Rawalumbu District. The incident occurred after they were hanging out at a coffee shop.

During their journey, RP and MA, who were riding together, were attacked by nine other students. RP died, while MA was injured and managed to escape.

POLRES METRO BEKASI KOTA

The 2 Patrol Pioneer Precision Team of the Metro Bekasi City Police secured nine teenagers involved in a brawl in the Centre Point apartment area, South Bekasi, Bekasi City on Thursday (23/3/2023) early morning.

In another case, on Sunday (May 14, 2023), two male teenagers, Indra and MAH, in the Koja district of North Jakarta, ended their friendship by risking their lives. The challenge of their duel was announced on social media.

Friends since childhood, they dueled using sickles. Indra died. Ironically, this was triggered by one of them losing his helmet.

Culture of violence

DOK POLRES LUMAJANG

Brawl illustration

Social observer from Elpagar, an institution that focuses on community living space recovery and social space in West Kalimantan, Furbertus Ipur, noted that Indonesia actually has a Child Protection Law. The law includes the rights of children.

However, laws alone are not enough without a good culture for children. The reason is that what is happening now is the proliferation of a violent culture that is presented vulgarly, including on social media.

"A culture of violence can emerge from games, the internet, etc. and is considered normal," said Ipur.

In that context, he mentioned that the state must take responsibility, as well as parents, the education world, and the environment. If this country wants to see good leaders, said Ipur, the culture of violence must be fought from now on.

"Children who are raised in a culture of verbal and physical violence are vulnerable to becoming criminals," said Ipur.

To combat the culture of violence, it can begin by building an empathetic attitude, respecting others so that we may become a generation that solves problems without violence. Equally important, is a good environment and parental role models.

"The authorities related to regulations regarding broadcasts on television and the internet should strictly enforce the regulations," said Ipur.

Also read: 17 year old teenager, sole suspect in the murder of Brigadier Satu Singgih