By: Rizky Ardiansyah )*
The quality of modern democracy is not only measured by the existence of formal institutions, but also by the health of the public information ecosystem. When digital space is hijacked by certain groups to spread lies and form false opinions, then what is threatened is not only the reputation of an institution, but the stability of the nation as a whole. In this context, the steps of law enforcement in exposing the network of negative content spreaders related to the Revision of the TNI Law should be appreciated as a form of protection for the democratic order and national security.
In the rapidly developing digital era, information flows rapidly without adequate filters. Easy access to social media and online platforms has changed the way the public understands national issues. However, behind this great potential, there is also a risk that is no less serious: the spread of organized and destructive misleading information against state institutions.
The latest case involving the buzzer network in spreading negative content regarding the Revision of the TNI Law shows that the digital space is not completely neutral. It is vulnerable to being used as a propaganda tool to build negative perceptions, weaken public trust in the state, and foster systemic political instability.
The confession of one of the suspects, Marcella Santoso, in a press conference held by the Attorney General’s Office, became an important bright spot in unraveling this network. She expressed regret for her involvement in the preparation and distribution of provocative narratives that targeted strategic state institutions. The apology also implied that her actions were not carried out solely personally, but as part of a larger and structured movement.
Meanwhile, from the military, the Head of the TNI Information Center, Major General Kristomei Sianturi emphasized that the TNI fully supports the legal process against the distribution of negative content that disrupts public trust. He considered that all forms of action that could damage the image of state institutions or shake national stability must be responded to professionally and based on applicable legal principles. The TNI is also committed to maintaining synergy with law enforcement agencies in uncovering the network and flow of funds behind the “Dark Indonesia” digital campaign and the rejection of the Revision of the TNI Law.
Furthermore, Kristomei invited the public to remain vigilant and careful in dealing with the flow of information. He emphasized the importance of being critical of unfounded opinions, and avoiding the spread of unverified information. This statement shows that the approach taken is not only repressive, but also preventive by involving public education.
From the law enforcement side, the Director of Investigation at the Attorney General’s Office for Special Crimes, Abdul Qohar, explained that to date four suspects have been named, including Marcella. He said that they were suspected of being involved in efforts to obstruct the investigation into a corruption case involving crude palm oil (CPO) exports worth more than IDR 11 trillion. In the investigation process, electronic evidence was also found that pointed to the alleged involvement of two buzzer coordinators who received hundreds of millions of rupiah in funds to disseminate negative content against the Attorney General’s Office and other institutions.
According to Qohar, the digital attack not only targeted policy issues, but also the personal lives of high-ranking state officials. The goal is believed to be to weaken public trust in law enforcement agencies that are handling the major case. In other words, disinformation is used as a weapon to obscure law enforcement efforts and create public confusion.
The firm steps taken by the Attorney General’s Office and supported by the TNI show the state’s courage in facing the challenges of the information era. Abuse of freedom of expression to spread slander and structured lies is not a democratic practice, but rather a form of sabotage against the legal system and social order.
The dismantling of this buzzer network needs to be seen as a strategic step, not just a reactive action. This is part of the formation of healthy information governance in the digital space. Media literacy must be the foundation of society so that it is not easily influenced by misleading narratives. Success in prosecuting perpetrators of digital hatred will also create a deterrent effect and strengthen public trust in legal institutions.
Law enforcement against provocative campaigns on social media is in line with the commitment to maintaining the supremacy of law and state stability. Digital democracy will only work well if public space is protected from misuse and manipulation. In this context, the participation of all elements of the nation, including the apparatus, society, and the media, is very important to m