Inp.polri.go.id - Batam. The Riau Islands Regional Police have clarified on Monday (23/10/2023) a viral video depicting a police officer carrying a machete while escorting a land survey team on Rempang Island. Police Senior Superintendent Zahwani Pandra Arsyad, Riau Islands Regional Police's Head of Public Relations Unit, said that the narrative presented in the video was inaccurate because the machetes were used to clear forest paths and were not intended to threaten or intimidate residents. "We encourgethe public to exercise prudence and verify information before placing trust in or disseminating unverified news or information," he was quoted by antaranews.com as saying. Zahwani explained that the police secured the survey by PT MEG was aimed at assessing project site locations and topography, including the verification of lands encompassing gardens, houses, and forests. PT MEG faced resistance from residents opposed to the government or developer activities within their community, "The machete's purpose was solely to facilitate access in an area densely populated with grass, weeds, tree branches, and shrubs that impede progress during survey and topographic operations," he said The spokesperson urged all parties to exercise restraint and not be provoked when responding to the development of Rempang as an Eco City in Batam City. Police Senior Superintendent Nugroho Tri Nuryanto, the Chief of Barelang (Batam, Rempang, and Galang) Sub-Regional Police, expressed his apologies for the incident, affirming that it would serve as subject matter for thorough analysis and evaluation in the execution of official duties. "Police officers must always adhere to standard of procedure such ass wearing police uniforms and collaborating closely with public order office. Assignment Letters must be carried at all times, and entry into measured and verified areas should be coordinated and reported to local community leaders to prevent any recurrence," he explained. (ar/inp/pr/nm)