JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesia’s National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, has posthumously promoted fallen officer Bripka Andithya Munartono to the rank of Anumerta Aipda, a level above his previous rank. This exceptional promotion was announced on January 3, 2025.
Andithya, a member of Pagerageung Police Station in Tasikmalaya, West Java, had heroically rescued a tourist from drowning at Pantai Pangandaran before tragically succumbing to the strong waves, being swept away as far as 40 meters from the shore.
His funeral was held with full honors at his family home in Desa Sukapada, Pagerageung, Tasikmalaya, on January 4, 2025, at 09:30 WIB. It was led by the Head of Tasikmalaya City Police, AKBP Joko Sulistiono. As a mark of respect, the Jawa Barat Provincial Police also provided financial assistance to Andithya’s family.
On January 3, 2025, around 15:30 WIB, Andithya and his colleague, Bripka Wahyu, were swimming near Pos 4 Pantai Barat Pangandaran when they spotted a distressed teenage tourist, Sevina Azahra. Without hesitation, both officers rushed to help. However, caught in a strong current and massive waves, Andithya, Sevina, and a bystander, Supri, were dragged away from the shore.
Wahyu managed to escape using a boogie board, while Andithya and Sevina were eventually saved by a passing fishing boat. Unfortunately, Andithya passed away due to drowning en route to the hospital. The Pangandaran Police Chief, AKBP Mujianto, expressed his deepest condolences over the loss.
Andithya’s courageous act serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering commitment and sacrifice made by Indonesia’s law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
