Indonesian Police Officer Fired Over Killing That Sparked Nationwide Protests

Indonesian authorities have fired police officer Cosmas Kaju Gae after an internal ethics tribunal found him guilty of serious misconduct connected to the killing of 21-year-old delivery driver Affan Kurniawan. Cosmas was in the front passenger seat of a police armored vehicle that fatally ran over Affan during efforts to disperse anti-government protests sparked by economic inequality and lawmakers' perks. The incident, which Cosmas said was unforeseen and without intent to harm, intensified nationwide protests that have resulted in at least 10 deaths and widespread unrest. Six other officers involved in the incident have been detained, with the vehicle's driver facing separate charges of serious misconduct. Despite his dismissal, Cosmas maintains he was merely fulfilling orders and has expressed condolences to Affan's family while considering an appeal. The protests have since diminished following revocations of some lawmakers' perks and military deployment.