Journalist for Rajawali Television (RTV) in Gorontalo experienced intimidation while covering a demonstration held by the Islamic Students Association at the Gorontalo Regional Police, on Monday December 23 2024.
The demonstration was held by Islamic Students Association as a form of protest against the rampant circulation of illegal cigarettes in Gorontalo province.
Journalist Ridha Yansa arrived in front of the Gorontalo Regional Police, at around 4:30 pm. He used a Press ID card.
The demonstrators began to give speeches and burn tires at 5 pm, until tensions arose between the police who were securing the action, and the demonstrators.
Ridha Yansa then recorded of the action using his cellphone. Head of Operations of the Gorontalo Regional Police, Police Commissioner Tony E.P. Sinambela suddenly approached the journalist and hit his cellphone until it fell. "Don't record yet". As a result of thet inicident the journalist's cellphone screen damaged.