Inp.polri.go.id - Padang.  West Sumatra Regional Police Chief Inspector General Gatot Tri Suryanta led the release of a mentally ill man who had been shackled for 15 years in Lubuk Alung, Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra, citing a commitment to human rights and protection for vulnerable groups.

“This release is a humanitarian act. The police are committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable groups, especially persons with mental disorders,” he said on Monday 26/5/2025), as quoted by antaranews.com.

The man, identified as D (46), was confined in a wooden room behind his parents' house due to uncontrollable behavior and the family's financial limitations. After being freed, he was transported by ambulance to Pelita Jiwa Insani Psychiatric Hospital for intensive treatment.

“Shackling is not a solution. It violates the basic human right to live with dignity,” Chief Gatot stressed.

The release followed coordinated efforts involving police, social services, and health authorities. Padang Pariaman Social Affairs Head Sumarni confirmed the case was reported by residents and assessed before intervention.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)