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Legal representatives for three Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) regency legislators and one civil servant have formally denied allegations of intimidation involving the late Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr. Icha. The four individuals underwent questioning at the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional Police headquarters on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, regarding their conduct at the Leona Kefamenanu Hospital on June 13, 2026.
Details of the Police Examination
The four subjects of the investigation include TTU Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) members Therezius Lazakar of the Golkar Party, Norbertus Tubani of the PKB, and Veronika Lake of the PDI Perjuangan. They were accompanied by Maria Mathildis Sau, a veterinarian and civil servant (ASN) at the TTU Livestock Agency. According to observations at the scene, the group arrived at the police headquarters at 10:40 Wita and declined to speak with reporters.
The duration of the police questioning varied among the group. Veronika Lake and Maria Mathildis Sau were interviewed from approximately 11:30 Wita until 15:00 Wita. Therezius Lazakar and Norbertus Tubani remained under examination until approximately 18:30 Wita.
Did You Know?
The investigation into the incident at Leona Kefamenanu Hospital has involved a wide-reaching inquiry, with police having already questioned 32 witnesses regarding the events surrounding the treatment of the patient.
Defense Strategy: Communication, Not Intimidation
Amos Lafu, acting as counsel for the group, stated that his clients did not engage in intimidation. He characterized the incident as an “alot” or difficult discussion regarding medical services provided to a relative of the accused. According to Lafu, the tension arose because the family felt they lacked sufficient information regarding the patient’s condition, specifically noting that blood test results were not immediately explained by Dr. Icha.
Lafu argued that the family’s reaction was a spontaneous response driven by panic. He noted that the family was particularly anxious due to past local experiences in TTU, where delays in treating green snake bites had resulted in fatalities. The defense maintains that once Dr. Nur and the Director of Leona Hospital provided a comprehensive explanation—stating the patient did not require anti-venom—the discussion concluded and normal communication resumed.
Next Steps in the Investigation
While the four individuals have completed their initial statements at the NTT Regional Police, the investigation remains ongoing. Given the involvement of multiple high-profile public officials, the case has drawn significant public attention, including demonstrations by medical professionals and advocacy groups such as the PMKRI, who have called for the TTU DPRD Ethics Council to ensure a fair resolution. Future developments may include further witness testimony or a formal determination by investigators on whether the actions taken by the legislators and the civil servant at the hospital constitute a breach of law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the four individuals being investigated by the NTT Police?
The individuals are TTU DPRD members Therezius Lazakar, Norbertus Tubani, and Veronika Lake, along with civil servant and veterinarian Maria Mathildis Sau.
What is the defense’s explanation for the events at the hospital?
Defense counsel Amos Lafu claims the group was in a state of panic due to concerns about their relative’s health and a lack of clear communication regarding medical results, leading to a difficult but necessary discussion about care.
How did the situation at the hospital resolve?
According to the defense, the situation concluded after Dr. Nur and the Director of Leona Hospital provided a full explanation of the patient’s status and confirmed that anti-venom treatment was unnecessary.
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