- (W) Second Protagonist's Point of View
Morning Wednesday 06 April 2022/07:05 Before 11:05
Police Headquarters. Criminal Investigation Division, I faced my superior to account for my report. Then, the stern face of the Chief Inspector, with a scar on his lip, grew even more serious with my report.
"THERE ARE STILL MANY THINGS I DON'T UNDERSTAND FROM YOUR REPORT, DETECTIVE." he said with a high and firm tone.
"UNDERSTOOD. Tuesday night at 08:49, my team and I already..." Suddenly my explanation was cut off.
"I ALREADY KNOW ABOUT THAT...!!!" He exclaimed with a sharp tone.
"What I don't understand is why? You Lowered Your Gun In Front of The Perpetrator!" said the chief inspector.
"UNDERSTOOD. At that moment, it was that situation, it was a hostage situation, Sir. And in order to protect the hostage..." As I tried to explain, my explanation was cut off again.
"ENOUGH OF YOUR EXPLANATION !! Anyway, you will be suspended for several months ahead, regarding Protocol violations. And your case will be taken over by the Counterterrorism Division," he ordered.
"But Sir, you can't do that, this case was from the beginning our unit's case," I said.
"You can't even handle the case anymore, and furthermore, this is beyond your jurisdiction detective. Now, hand over your weapon and badge because starting today you are suspended from any investigative unit. and any case."
"Khook....Khook,What...?"
Suddenly, our conversation focus was diverted by a voice, the voice of an elderly, chubby man with a thick mustache holding a cup of coffee. The voice of someone who would always defend us.
"it seems like? "You have something to say, Deputy Chief Inspector," said the Chief Inspector. With his eyes looking at me, he said.
"No, I'm just not feeling well," he said. As he looked towards the window and saw Anggi pleading desperately.
"Alright, I understand. There must be something you disagree with my decision, right, Mr.Arif ?" said Chief Inspector.
"No, not at all, Mr.Jared," he replied. Instantly Anggi's behavior outside became erratic. But then he gestured with his hand trying to calm Anggi down.
"Good, finally we can agree," he said with relief.
"Just...Aah ,we seem to have a bit of a problem," he said with a feigned expression of concern.
"Is there a problem, Mr.Arif...?" asked the Inspector.
"No...No, your decision is right this time," said the Deputy Chief Inspector.
"Don't make me worry more, just tell me what happened..." asked the Chief Inspector.
"I'm just worried, it seems the work of the criminal investigation division will be very heavy for the next few months. And I'm worried we won't be able to handle it," he said with a worried expression again.
"Why would that be?" said the Chief Inspector.
"Because what Detective Iswara did will create a gap in the Investigation Team," he said.
"There are still many people in this division, if necessary we can assign their cases to other teams for now if needed," said the Chief Inspector.
"That's the problem, Sir. Other teams are already overwhelmed with their respective cases, and as far as I know, there's not a single person in this division capable of handling the workload as adeptly as she does. What will happen to us if the superiors demand accountability?" replied the Deputy Chief Inspector.
"I knew it, you're surely defending her. Then what should I do, let her be? Indisciplined officers are allowed to run amok without consequences. That's what they would surely say," said the Chief Inspector, barely containing his frustration.
"LOOK AT YOURSELF, DETECTIVE..! What you did not only caused chaos but also made the Chief Inspector here dizzy. How will you be held accountable for your actions, HUH...!!" exclaimed the Deputy Chief Inspector.
"I'M READY, I'M READY TO ACCEPT ANY PUNISHMENT, CHIEF INSPECTOR," I said confidently.
"That doesn't even solve anything," said the Chief Inspector. Then the Deputy Chief Inspector carried him away and they whispered to each other.
"This can't go like this, Chief," whispered the Chief Inspector.
"I know, but what else can we do?" whispered the Deputy Chief Inspector.
"But there has to be discipline," whispered the Chief Inspector again.
"I agree. Ahhh, I have an idea," whispered the Deputy Chief Inspector.
Then they turned around and approached me again, saying,
"Due to persuasion and advice from the Deputy Chief Inspector, your suspension is lifted. And it will be replaced with another form of disciplinary punishment. Therefore, you are allowed to leave and receive instructions from the Deputy Chief Inspector regarding your punishment," said the Chief Inspector.
"I UNDERSTAND, CHIEF INSPECTOR. But what about the case?" I asked.
"That's my decision and the decision of our superiors. You're officially removed from the case," said the Chief Inspector. I didn't agree with the decision and tried to argue.
"But Sir..." I began, but the Deputy Chief Inspector quickly pushed me out.
"Are you out of your mind? I just saved you from trouble," he said.
"But Sir...You know that was originally my case. and with Dias handling it, it's not going to end well," I said, trying to contain my frustration.
"In that case, it was a direct order from superiors. "It's very difficult to change it if we want to," he said.
What's going on? Is it over? So, sis Swara isn't getting severe punishment, right..?" Anggi asked.
"No, but it seems like she'd rather face severe punishment than let go of her case," replied the Deputy Chief Inspector.
"WHAT..!!! So our case is really being taken over. Sis and I spent a lot of time and hard work on that case," exclaimed Anggi.
"Are you going to protest now? The Chief Inspector's decision is final. I can't, I can't persuade him anymore," said the Deputy Chief Inspector firmly.
"Come on, please try again, Chief Inspector. You know he always listens to you," Anggi pleaded.
"ONCE I SAY NO, IT STAYS NO," said the Deputy Chief Inspector firmly.
"Please, Dad, try to talk again," Anggi pleaded.
"NO, don't persuade me like that. Do you realize you're asking your Dad to practice nepotism in the office? Yet, you used to hate things like that so much." he said, his expression turning sour as he looked Anggi.
"Detective Iswara, come with me. Let's discuss your punishment," said the Deputy Chief Inspector.
"Yes, Sir," I said as I followed him. I followed him into the room, and to my surprise, I heard what the Deputy Chief Inspector said.
"WHAT..!!!" I exclaimed in shock.
"Why the surprise? This is your punishment," he said with a blank expression.
"But aren't there any other punishments, Sir?" I asked.
"No! Seeing your expression just now, I'm more convinced that this punishment suits you," said the Deputy Chief Inspector.
"But Sir, I've been a detective for years. This task doesn't suit me."
"This is a detective's punishment. not a choice. You have to carry it out according to procedure, or else I'll be the one punished by the superiors," he said firmly.
"So, how long will this last?"
"More or less...? until an undetermined time." he said with a smile.
"WHAT..! How can that be?" I exclaimed in shock.
"I don't know," said the Inspector, "the punishment will remain until you learn, and I know you are stubborn. So my answer is, I can't say for sure. Well, is that clear now?" He said, added with a smile and, raising his eyebrows several times.
"Okay…Okay, when will this punishment be carried out?" The Deputy Inspector smiled again and...
Morning Wednesday 06 April 2022/10:45
"Plirrt...Plirrt..Go...forward...more." The whistle blew as I steered the car back into lane.
Then I saw a car stopped on the side of the road, so I immediately approached it because it violated traffic regulations.
"Sorry sir, there is a 'no stopping' sign here. So why stop here?" I ask.
"Oh, sorry, sis. I came here because I wanted to smoke first, so I decided to stop and go out for a moment. Hehe..." said the man, laughing.
"Okay sir, because you violated traffic regulations, I will ticket you." I said.
"No Miss, I just stopped by for a moment; Hey, pretend you didn't see m." he said, handing me some money. Then I returned the money while saying,
"No, I don't need this. I'm just doing my job. Your driving license, please." I said firmly. Reluctantly, the man handed over his driving license.
"Here's your ticket, and I'll keep your driving license." I said. then a faint whisper came from the man.
"Huh... You dare to ticket me; you, trying to act like law enforcement. You don't even dare to catch corrupt officials..."
"What did you say?" I asked while giving him a sharp look.
"Hehe, I didn't say anything;" the man said with a smile, immediately returning to his car.
Not long after, he rolled down his car window and said.
"HEY, YOU BASTARD! JUST SO YOU KNOW, I ALSO HAVE A CONNECTION WITH A HIGH-RANKING OFFICER. I CAN GET YOU FIRED IF I REPORT YOU! " The man said loudly. Frustrated, I responded.
"DO YOU THINK I'M AFRAID? GO AHEAD AND REPORT ME. I'VE NEVER BEEN INTIMIDATED BY THREATS LIKE THAT! "
"TOUGH GAL, HUH...!!! NOW YOU'RE CHALLENGING ME." The man said..
"I'M NOT AFRAID, YOU KNOW. WHO IS THIS OFFICER YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT, HUH..." I said in a raised voice, then the man replied.
"COLONEL SANDERS HA..!!" Hearing that, I immediately put on a poker face.
"Such a hothead. No sense of humor," Then the man stepped on the gas, quickly driving away after making that mocking remark. Then the sound of a woman laughing could be heard.
"Hahaha..!!! How was it? Have you negotiated yet? If you meet Colonel Sanders, I'll ask for his chicken, okay !" A girl with a bobbed hairstyle, flowing hair, fair skin, and a cute face could be seen. She wore a white shirt, a black sweater, and blue jeans
"Anggi, it's you again. I've ordered you to take a break. Why did you come here?" I asked, puzzled.
"Well... you could say this is my best vacation, Sis. Besides, when else can I see the famous Detective Iswara busy taking care of and protecting the community up close, hehehe..." She said, smiling. Yep, it wouldn't be Anggi without her slightly childish and naive demeanor.
"You're unbelievable. Do you have some hidden grudge against me?" I said, adjusting my hat.
"Uuhhh! Looking at that uniform, it actually looks pretty cool when worn by you." She complimented.
"Enough with the teasing. Go home, or I'll punish you for disrespecting and defying my orders," I threatened.
"Ughh... abuse of power. But honestly, it's true. Although, if you look closely, you seem quite youthful," she said.
"Now suddenly giving compliments, just go..." I blushed.
However, suddenly we heard a woman's scream.
"Help! Help...!! There's a pickpocket, help...!!"
"Damn it, Anggi, let's chase after him! How could this happen while I'm being punished..!" I said as I ran.
"Got it." Anggi and I hurriedly chased after the pickpocket.
Then we continued to chase him until we reached an alley, and the pickpocket quickly disappeared from our sight.
"Hey, stop! Damn it, he... he got away," Anggi said, panting heavily.
"DAMN...!!! Tut...Tut, to all units on Paku Bumi Street, we have a robbery incident in the area. The perpetrator fled towards the alley. Description of the suspect: wearing a Black and White jacket, Green Cargo pants, we couldn't identify physical features due to the suspect wearing a hoodie, but appears to be around 170 cm tall." I quickly broadcasted to all units.
Then, I noticed some water splashes on the wall, which raised my suspicion.
"Anggi, look at this splash of water, it's strange, right?" I asked Anggi.
"Yes, among the others, why is only this one still wet?" He answered.
"It seems that during the chase, because of panic, the suspect stepped on a water bottle, then climbed over this wall and fled through the yard of this house," I analyzed.
"I agree," said Anggi. Then we continued the chase, deciding to split up. Not long after, I saw the suspect based on his description. I ran towards him.
"HEY, YOU! STOP... STOP!!!" I shouted. A man wearing a black and white jacket, and green cargo pants exactly as described, is visible.
"Hmm, me...?" He asked while pointing at himself. Classic trick. Immediately I said:
" YOU'RE STILL ASKING, YOU JERK!!!"
With full speed, I ran towards him to prevent him from escaping again.
"STAY THERE AND DON'T RUN AWAY AGAIN, YOU BASTARD... PLACKKK!!!" My quick response to preempt any unwanted situation. However, it seems like my recent kick didn't affect him at all, and I'm worried he might fight back.
"Why..." he whispered softly. Then, a man with slightly long, black hair is visible. He has fair skin and thick eyebrows.
"How dare you… pickpocket while I'm on duty! " I said, preparing for the worst case scenario. But then he fell unconscious. Suddenly Anggi came and asked what happened.
"What... what's going on here...? Oh...!!! What happened, Why is he unconscious...!?" Anggi responded in shock.
"What...? What happened ? I'm just apprehending a suspect," I replied in a flat tone.
"Oh my god..!! It seems like you've been a detective for too long, that's not how you catch a thief, Kak," she said, looking at the suspect's condition.
"If this continues Sis, your punishment might be extended." Then, an odd expression appeared on Anggi's face.
Is he going to be okay, Anggi...?" I asked, concerned.
"HAH.. Hari.! What are you doing in here."
"Hah... You know this person, Anggi...?"
"Yeah, he was my classmate back in high school, but I never expected to meet him in this state." she replied.
"Hmm...' Let's help me get him to the car." I said.
(M) Main Protagonist's Point of View
Wed, 06. 04. 2022, / 12: 29
"Hmm... ahh, what is this?" When I regained consciousness, I found myself lying on the sofa in a place I didn't recognize.
"Where am I...? Why are my hands handcuffed?" I said while looking around. Suddenly, I heard a whisper in my ear.
"You're at the police station," the whisper immediately reached my ear.
"Hahhh!!" I was shocked
"Hahahaha..." Laughter from a familiar face.
"Ahhh, what the hell," I muttered, processing everything that had happened.
"Hmm... you're sweating. You need water," he said as he sat down and handed me a bottle of water. I drank it, and she introduced himself.
"Iss..iss..iss, I know you're quiet and rarely interact at school. Plus, we graduated five years ago. But seriously, why don't you recognize me, Har...?" She said with a smile as she sat down. As I took a sip, I tried to recognize her face. A girl? with a bobbed hairstyle, flowing hair? I've never know a girl like that. until I observed her face.
"Woahh..!! Anggi!!" I exclaimed in shock while holding back the tears that came out from choking.
"Ha ha ha..!" she laughed at my surprised expression.
"How are you... and why are you here?" I ask.
"I'm good, lots of things happened. And actually, you should be asking why you're here. Oops, I forgot, look at this." He showed me his police identification badge.
"Now I'm a Police Detective, by the way," Anggi with a salute and a wink. Reflexively, I raised my hand towards him.
"Wow, really? Let's high five." And with joy, he slapped and clasped my hand, and I said.
"I've told you before, right? I knew you'd be a great cop someday." I said, joining in the excitement.
"Yeah, I never expected my dream to come true someday," said Anggi enthusiastically.
"By the way, why haven't we heard much from you in the alumni group...?" Anggi asked.
"Looks like you don't really know me, Gi. I've never been close to them." I said in a flat tone.
"It's true, you are always alone," he said.
"But don't worry, I've changed now," I said.
"That's good, I'm proud of you. Well, because I'm happy, let's take a selfie," he said, smiling while showing his cellphone.
"What for?" I ask.
"Just for the memories," he said. Then, not long after, he stood up, took my hand, and asked a random person to take our photo.
"Okay...say Cheese." Anggi said.
"Cheese," I said awkwardly.
"Smile, come on... Cheese." he says.
"Okay, okay, Cheese." I answered flatly.
"Change pose again." Anggi said.
Then, a voice came from behind.
BREKKK!!! A sudden thud from behind startled everyone in the room, and we all reflexively turned to see where the sound came from.
"HEY... WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?!" shouted a stern-faced woman with fair skin and black hair tied in a ponytail. Strangely, she also seemed familiar.
"Gi... I told you. When he regained consciousness, inform me so I can start the investigation process faster. Instead, you're here chatting and joking with him, even taking photos together. Is this some kind of reunion event?! " She said firmly, with one eyebrow raised.
Her stern expression made it seem like she didn't feel guilty for kicking someone in the head until they passed out and ended up here. Moreover, she was facing me so casually.
Wait, isn't she the Policewoman who was interviewed on the TV news before? What is she doing here?
"Hey, you..!" She said, looking in my direction and pointing her chin.
"Me...? or her...?" I responded, confused about who the call was directed towards.
"It's you! Besides, who else is the suspect here?" She said.
"HAAH! " I exclaimed in surprise.
"Come here, quickly." she said firmly.
Feeling awkward and tense, I walked towards her reluctantly.
"Please have a seat."
"Why you sit down too? Are you also a suspect, Hmm..." She said to Anggi, who was sitting next to me.
"No, but I'm his friend," Anggi replied.
"Those who have no business here, please stand up and leave the room," she said sternly. Anggi,
"Name...?" He asked.
"Hari Wongsoyudan Pratama..." He replied.
"Address...?"
"Old Road, Kalimaya Alley No. 276, by the way, what's the matter?"
"You're charged with theft at 10:32 this morning," she said flatly.
"What...! What theft are you talking about?"
"According to the victim's statement, the items were forcibly taken by someone wearing a black and white jacket and green cargo pants. And guess who we found at the crime scene with these characteristics," she said curtly, glancing at her computer screen.
"I don't understand," he said.
"No need to understand because you were caught red-handed. I hope you can admit your actions without dragging it out any longer," she said flatly.
"Wait... wait... so because of your hypothesis. And without considering other factors, you arrested me with... Ohh No... no... sorry, besides,you just kicked me in the head with Dolke Chagi," I objected .
"Dolke Chagi...?" Anggi looked confused.
"A spinning kick movement of 360 degrees."
"Ohh...Sister!!! That's outrageous." Anggi exclaimed. The Policewomen appeared annoyed and embarrassed, evident from her expression and the way her hands scratched her head.
"And not to mention you handcuffed me while unconscious."
"If that's the case, I admit I was wrong because I was a little too enthusiastic about it." she said flatly with a faint smile.
"Huhh, a little, you say," I whispered. She then stared sharply at me.
"Such behavior cannot be justified. But what else could the suspect do but try her hardest to escape? Besides, that doesn't erase the fact that you're the only person here with these characteristics." she said.
"Huhh, how do I explain to you that you've arrested the wrong person? I just happened to pass by at that time, and why would I steal when I have a job to earn money." I said. Then suddenly Anggi spoke up.
"That's right, Sister, I'm sure Hari would never do anything as bad as this, no matter the situation." Anggi defended me. I could see the conviction emanating from her like a thin wisp of emotion. Maybe all of this happened because of the fading effects of the drug over time. However, there was something strange about the policewoman in front of me; she didn't radiate anything, even though the environment around her was filled with emotions.
"Hemm... here we go again, Belief doesn't prove anything, Anggi," he said.
"But I know him... I know this person. Like I said earlier, I'm the Discipline Supervisor at my school, and this person has no history of mischief, let alone crime. On the contrary." Anggi said confidently.
"Where do you place your objectivity? Feelings and personal experience cannot explain the real situation. You know very well that many of the criminals we arrest have life histories that are completely contradictory to their actions. Some are even completely clean," she said.
"But..." Anggi began, quickly cut off.
"No 'buts'! Just because you know someone well doesn't mean they will always be good. Because they're all still human. And humans are very capable of being wrong." she said.
"But listen, Sis." Anggi interrupted, somehow causing them to get into an open debate between the two of them. Besides that...
For some reason, the policewoman's words sparked a thought in me.
"So, are you also human...?" I uttered, inadvertently halting their debate.
""Excuse me...!" she said, looking in my direction. Instantly, I was snapped out of my reverie.
"Huhhh..? No, I didn't say anything."
"No, Sir, you've already voiced your thoughts about me. So please, continue." she said, looking annoyed by my earlier remark.
"Hmmm... what do I mean...? How can you judge someone just by their posture, their attire? What if someone with the same appearance is present at the same time and location amidst a series of closely adjacent unfortunate situations? And yet, you conclude that I'm the thief...?" My argument.
"No, I can't make that decision, as it's the judge's prerogative. What I do is gather evidence, draw conclusions, and respond as quickly as possible. Besides, I don't really believe in coincidences," she asserted firmly.
"I agree with that, but are you confident in your argument...?" I said, without intending to corner her. But, yeah, I've realized its loophole !
"Very confident about that," she said assuredly.
"Hmm... Actually, I didn't mean to question your integrity, but I also have an alibi for that," I said with a smile.
"Are you implying deception, huh... just try deceiving if you..." she said, but I immediately cut her off..
"OK, THANK YOU...!!! With your permission, let's begin." and suddenly, The police office turned into the crime scene in my mind.
"First, when I saw you before passing out. Your disheveled clothes, sweat on your neck, huhh...wet shoes. It seems like you were chasing the perpetrator, right? When caught red-handed in the act, is that true?" I said confidently.
"Well, that's correct. Because the location of the theft is very close to where I was patrolling, so when I heard the shout, we immediately ran to chase the culprit," said Anggi.
"Hmmmm... good reflex," I assumed you've dealt with much heavier cases than this..."
"BACK! to the topic..." she said.
"Alright, during the incident, did you see the perpetrator? I mean, when you decided to go to the location, was the perpetrator still within your sight, or was the distance between the perpetrator and the victim not too far, then you decided to chase him?"
"Well, as Anggi mentioned, my location and the crime scene were not too far apart, or you could say they were in the same place. So, the perpetrator was still within my sight, and we decided to chase after him." she said flatly.
"Alright, secondly, you must have chased them to a certain point. A point where the perpetrator disappeared from your sight. Hiding, corners, multiple routes, winding places. Alleys, for instance? "
"Hmm... we did chase them until we reached an alley, where the perpetrator briefly disappeared from our sight. But we hadn't lost their trail..." Anggi said before I interrupted.
"Because you found a clue, right? Let me guess, hmm... but it's not strong enough to ascertain the direction the perpetrator went? Actually, I suspect one thing. Hahh! URGENT and CLEAR. You found a footprint, for example...?" I said, looking towards the policewoman's shoes and uniform.
Well, how did you know...?" Anggi asked.
"Thirdly, because it's not the rainy season now, and the road conditions are definitely dry. But the perpetrator must have stepped on something wet. And you stepped on that puddle too, right?" I asked.
"Well, yes, the perpetrator stepped on a water bottle that released its contents. But that doesn't explain anything." said the detective.
"It depends, because it's not just any water bottle. It's a group of water bottles that were arranged for recycling, but due to an incident, they got scattered. I guess it happened because the perpetrator was running in a panic. So, Hehh... A pressing situation, Panic, Water bottles, Experience, Auick conclusions. You decided to follow that trail because of your experience. And you didn't intend to let the perpetrator go, right."
"Woww ! " Anggi exclaimed in amazement.
"And the climax is, you found an unexpected variable. That's me. A man dressed the same, with a similar height, the first person you saw and found after that series of events. and Unfortunately, that's me." I stated firmly.
"Woww, amazing... How did you know so much from that short analysis?" Anggi exclaimed in admiration.
"Just a guess from an unlucky person." I said with a smile.
"You never change, huh, Mister Mysterious Glasses," Anggi said, recalling my old nickname from school.
"What are you talking about? I don't wear glasses anymore," the Policewoman interjected quickly, cutting off our conversation.
"Hmm, a reasonable defense. But that's not enough to counter my argument," the policewoman said cynically.
"But respectfully, isn't what Hari said reasonable? I mean, he must be innocent in this case." Anggi said innocently.
"With all due respect, Anggi. It seems I have to detain your friend because to me, his argument doesn't invalidate mine, but strengthens it. As far as I know, such conclusions can only be drawn by 4 people: detectives, prosecutors, lawyers, a clever thief's self-defense." the detective said cynically.
"What do you mean...?" I asked, smiling.
"Well, your argument actually strengthens mine. That you're indeed the perpetrator. Because he himself experienced all those events. So he just needs to provide his reasoning in a believable manner for self-defense in the future if caught," the detective explained.
"Exactly, that alone isn't enough to prove that I'm not guilty. That's why I've prepared the concrete evidence here..." I smiled, raising both of my hands.
"Where...? What is it ?" The Policewoman asked.
" Ckkk...look at this... and this," I said as I gestured to my entire body and showed my appearance, which had nothing on it.
"What is it...?" Anggi asked.
"You're joking now...!" the policewoman replied.
"No...! I'm serious. It may seem like a joke, but look, there's nothing here, right?"
"Then, what's the connection...?" the policewoman asked.
"The wet wall with paint. Did you notice the wall?" I inquired.
"What...?" she said.
"You said you found traces on the wall." I reminded her.
"Ya..." she said.
"Let me guess, is the color of the wall the same as the marks on your arm, and even some on Anggi's sweater."
"Ehh Sejak kapan tanda ini...? Jadi maksud mu Merah, betul sih tembok itu memang berwarna merah sih..." Ucap Anggi.
"But it's strange, as far as I know, I've never seen a wall of this color in that area until yesterday evening," I explained, noticing the policewoman's furrowed brow as she listened to my explanation.
"That means there's a high likelihood that the wall was recently painted. And it hasn't fully dried yet. If the perpetrator climbed it, he will likely came into contact with the still wet parts of the wall. That's also what explains why there are some traces of paint on your and Anggi's arms and clothes."
"Hmm... if you're right, then where did the pickpocket go...?" Anggi muttered amidst my explanation.
"Coincidentally, before you met me, I happened to pass by someone with those red marks on their hands. But strangely, they weren't wearing the same jacket as me, but a similar-looking shirt and pants. There's a good chance they took it off and discarded it somewhere, but you're right, they might be a clever thief." I said confidently. Anggi seemed to be trying to recall the events at that moment.
"Yeah...! You're right again, about the red wall at that time. Especially your explanation about your clean clothes, and also your explanation about the perpetrator. That could be strong evidence that you're not the perpetrator." Anggi said, amazed. I looked at the policewoman and added.
"And About the conclusion earlier, you forgot one more person. Besides the skilled detective, lawyer, prosecutor, or the perpetrator themselves. Even someone with free imaginative thinking could draw that conclusion. So to me, you're not that special. So keep your apology, and may I leave now. Bye..." As I rushed to leave, she stopped me and said.
"If You Take One Step Beyond That Door, I Will Write Your Name On The Wanted List...!"
"What else!" I exclaimed.
"Sis, what else, all the defenses seem valid and reasonable. From the footprints to the wall, besides you don't have enough evidence." Anggi said.
"Yeah, I know, but the police's duty is to suspect and prevent bad things from happening again. So for security reasons, I have to detain you for at least 24 hours." she said firmly.
"Damn It! Do You Think I Have No Other Business...!!! ACCORDING TO THE CRIMINAL PROCEDURE CODE ARTICLE 1 PARAGRAPH 2 STATES THAT A PERSON CAN BE ARRESTED OR DETAINED BASED ON SUFFICIENT EVIDENCE FOR COMMITTING THE CRIME...!!!" I said angrily.
"Well, I Know, But... ACCORDING TO THE CRIMINAL PROCEDURE CODE ARTICLE 18 PARAGRAPH 1 STATES THAT THE POLICE HAVE THE RIGHT TO DETAIN THE SUSPECT FOR A MAXIMUM OF 1X24 HOURS FOR INVESTIGATION AND PREVENTION...!!!" she said with a high tone.
"BUT I DON'T HAVE TIME FOR YOUR FLAWED INVESTIGATION...!!! I'VE HAD ENOUGH WITH YOUR MISTAKES. DETAINING SOMEONE WITHOUT CLEAR ARGUMENTS. DO YOU THINK A POLICE STATION AND PRISON ARE LUXURY HOTELS...!!! ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU'VE WASTED SO MUCH OF MY TIME."
"Sis, Harr, please be patient... this can be resolved calmly," Anggi expressed concern about the situation.
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN...!!! I HAVE REASONS TO DETAIN YOU. DO YOU THINK POLICE JOB IS A JOKE...!!!" she said.
"THEREFORE, DEAR RESPECTABLE POLICE OFFICER. YOU HAVE A JOB, I HAVE A JOB, EVERYONE IN THIS WORLD HAS A JOB. SO WHY ARE YOU IMPEDING MY WORK. I ALSO HAVE TO BE ON TIME FOR MY JOB ! INSTEAD OF SITTING HERE WAITING FOR YOU TO FINISH YOUR WORK. WHEN I KNOW YOU'LL NEVER FINISH...!!!" I said angrily.
"You both, please be patient for a little longer, okay... I beg you," Anggi said.
This chaotic situation, attracting the attention of everyone in the police station, with various hues of emotions I see from the people. Then suddenly.
"What's all this commotion about, that it's causing such a ruckus...?!" The words were spoken by the thin, bald-headed old man, slightly hunched, who emerged from his office. Instantly, Anggi and the Detective stood up straight and saluted the Old Man.
"Alright, so it's like this, Chief Haris..." Anggi's words were instantly cut off.
"Enough, I already know the situation. Besides, who wouldn't know about this uproar when you all were shouting at each other. While I was trying to sleep... uhh I mean, trying to work inside," he said, taking a drag from his cigarette
"Sorry, Chief, for the commotion I caused." said the policewoman. Then the old man walked towards me and the policewoman, and said.
"Because the commotion has already occurred. And both parties insist on not agreeing. So as the head of this office, I decide...? Huhh...What's your name, young man?" asked the old man
" Hari Wongsoyudan Pratama."
"Well, Mr. Hari Wongsoyudan. You are allowed to leave this office."
"You can't do that, sir..!!!" said the policewoman, his tone rising.
"Hahh You, It's only your first day in this office. Why create unnecessary chaos and trouble..." The policewoman stared sharply at the Old Man. And there started to be a hint of gray emotion from the old man, indicating a slight hesitation with his decision. Worried that the decision might change, I intervened and I said.
"Why Not, I've Proven That I'm Not Guilty. And I've Also Shown That You've Overlooked Specific Evidence. Plus, There's No Strong Evidence In Your Argument. Furthermore, I Need Yo Leave Because I Have Matters To Attend to. So, As a Free And Innocent Citizen Protected By The Law, I Have The Right To Go Wherever I Want..!!!" I said to ensure that the old man stuck to his decision.
"But As a Police Officer, I Have To Protect Security And Law..!" The policewoman stared sharply at me.
"But just because of that reason, you..!"
"EVERYONE, BE QUIET...!!!" shouted the old man. This time his emotion appeared in bright purple, indicating his frustration with the situation. But it could also be confirmed that he had made a firm decision.
"Fine... Fine, I know the solution...! Because you refuse to let him go," the old man said, pointing towards the policewoman.
"And you insist on leaving..." He pointed towards me.
"So, I decide that you may leave," he finally said.
"Accompanied by Detective Iswara who will supervise you. For 24 hours if necessary!" said the Old Man.
"WHAT!!!"
"WHAT!!!" both of us exclaimed.
"But Sir..." I said.
"It can't be like that, Chief..." the policewoman said.
"No buts. this is an order for you. And it's also my solution so you don't have to be detained, and you can still finish your duty." he said firmly to both of us.
" Tapi Pak. Saya masih banyak urusan kantor yang belum ku terselesaikan." Ucap polisi wanita itu.
"As far as I know, you're currently under punishment, and assigned only to traffic patrol and minor cases at this branch office. And if not you, then who else." The Old Man said firmly.
I... I'm ready, Chief." said Anggi, saluting and smiling.
No, no, you are not part of this office (Optimistic Girl)" said the Old Man flatly. Anggi's disappointed expression was visible.
"Because the decision is final, and I have resolved all the issues. So you can go and attend to your respective matters."
"But, Sir..." said the policewoman, who was ignored by the old man.
"Finally, this office can be peaceful for a while," he whispered, then the Old Man quickly returned to his office. Then both of us left the police station. Suddenly, I received a phone call from Surya.
" Yo Jar, What is it..."
Where the fuck are you, A#*$@! You said you were going to prepare!!! Livy has been waiting here forever."
"Hey, calm down men.. I had an accident earlier. So, how's Livy? Is she still there...?" I asked.
" "Thankfully, she's still waiting for you. But she's in the toilet now. What kind of mishap happened that you're making this person wait like this?"
"What's with your language? Anyway, it's complicated. I'll explain it later when I arrive," I said.
"Okey, hurry up because you're already late."
"Ugh..." I muttered, glancing at my watch.
Unfortunately, because of this incident, I've wasted a lot of time, and the journey is still far. Plus, I have to keep being with this person.
"Our business is done here, so I'll return to my matters, and you to yours. Hopefully, we won't cross paths again. Farewell..." I said. She didn't seem to change much, just taking off her uniform and wearing a long-sleeved casual shirt and jeans with a color perhaps harmonizing with the plain undershirt, but with a contrasting color, maybe.
"I'm worried that won't happen," she said.
"Here we go again..." I whispered.
"Because to get back to my previous business, I have to deal with my current business first. Just as instructed by the Chief," she said flatly.
" What the hell is going on today...?" I said. Then Anggi immediately came back.
Wow...wow... you're already starting a fight as soon as you come out." Anggi joked to lighten the mood.
"Har, let me drive you. My car is parked outside, and it seems like it's been a while since we last had a chat. Plus, it looks like you could use a ride, right?" he offered with a smile.
"Wow, you really know me well."
"Okey, let's go then..." Then the three of us headed towards the car.