Indonesian TikToker Galih Noval Aji Arrested for Alleged Religious Discrimination

Galih Noval Aji Prakosoa, known as Galih Loss on TikTok, has been arrested by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police for allegedly spreading racial and religious discrimination issues through his @galihloss3 account. The arrest comes after a controversial video posted by Galih Loss went viral, provoking outrage and prompting a police investigation.

In the video, Galih Loss asked a child, "What animal can recite the Qur'an?" He then responded with a modified version of the ta'awudz prayer, which is recited to seek refuge in Allah from Satan, while imitating animal sounds. The distortion of the sacred prayer was deemed highly offensive and disrespectful by many viewers.

Following the viral spread of the video, the Jakarta Metropolitan Police initiated an investigation into the case. After a thorough examination, the police determined that Galih Loss had committed religious defamation and the spread of hate speech based on ethnicity, religion, race, and intergroup relations (SARA) through electronic media.

Why this matters: The arrest of Galih Noval Aji highlights the serious consequences of spreading discriminatory content on social media platforms. It functions as a reminder that freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and with respect for religious and cultural sensitivities.

Galih Loss was subsequently arrested and detained by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police for further investigation. He faces severe legal repercussions for his actions, with potential charges under Article 28 paragraph (2) of the ITE Law, which carries a maximum sentence of 6 years in prison and/or a fine of up to 1 billion rupiah. Additionally, he may face charges under Article 156a of the Criminal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison.

The arrest of Galih Noval Aji sends a strong message that the Indonesian authorities take the spread of religious discrimination and hate speech seriously. As stated by a Jakarta Metropolitan Police spokesperson, "We will not tolerate any form of hate speech or actions that promote discrimination based on religion, race, or ethnicity. Those who engage in such behavior will face the full force of the law."

Key Takeaways

• TikToker Galih Loss arrested for religious defamation and hate speech
• Viral video showed him mocking Quranic recitation, provoking outrage
• Faces charges under ITE Law and Criminal Code, up to 11 years in prison
• Arrest highlights consequences of discriminatory content on social media
• Indonesian authorities vow to not tolerate hate speech or religious discrimination