Polda Metro Jaya is involving experts to investigate a report against comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono regarding his Mens Rea stand-up comedy material. The probe is being conducted carefully to balance law enforcement with freedom of expression. Pandji has revealed suspicions of intelligence presence during the 2025 show.
Polda Metro Jaya has advanced its investigation into a report of alleged defamation against comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono stemming from his 2025 stand-up comedy special titled Mens Rea. Direktur Reserse Kriminal Umum Polda Metro Jaya, Commissioner Big Police Iman Imanudin, explained that the process involves experts to ensure law enforcement does not infringe on freedom of expression principles in the arts.
"We are also continuously seeking statements from experts on how to construct boundaries for freedom of expression and art in public spaces, aligned with criminal provisions in every aspect of our national life," said Iman on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
He stressed the need for professionalism and balance. "We continue to do this to maintain professionalism, proportionality, and balance, providing a sense of security while ensuring that freedom of expression and artistic space remain civilized," he added.
Investigators examined the reporter, initials RARW, on Monday to delve into the report. They are open to gathering additional evidence beyond the contested recording. "Of course, besides what was brought by the reporter, we investigators are continuously making efforts to collect other evidence. And we ensure the law enforcement process will be transparent and balanced," Iman stated.
Pandji Pragiwaksono, as the subject of the report, is scheduled for questioning, though the exact time has not been disclosed. In a separate interview, Pandji revealed suspicious experiences during the Mens Rea performance. He suspected intelligence presence due to strict no-recording rules for video or audio, with phones confiscated if caught.
"There was indeed intel at that time. Because in my stand-up show, there is security monitoring the audience to prevent them from raising phones to record," said Pandji. When a man in the emerald section was caught recording and asked to delete it, his photo album opened showing police photos, reinforcing the suspicion. Pandji also claimed police requested over 100 invitations for the event, and he could identify suspicious attendees, like a late-arriving man in the diamond section who showed no laughter during the show.
