"We have dismissed the individual. We began looking into this matter about four days ago, right after receiving the report," he said in Jakarta on Wednesday.
Andrianto said the ministry is still questioning the prison head, identified as CS, and noted that an ethics hearing has already been held.
Preliminary information suggested the alleged abuse occurred during a celebratory event.
"We are investigating the case, with some individuals claiming it happened during a birthday party. Regardless, we will continue examining it. In short, we give zero tolerance to such conduct," Andrianto said.
Rika Aprianti, head of Correctional Cooperation at the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, said CS was questioned by the North Sulawesi Corrections Office on November 27.
"On that day, we dismissed CS from his position and appointed a caretaker to lead the Enemawira Correctional Institution," she said.
She added that the Directorate General of Corrections issued an investigation order the next day. A code of ethics hearing was then held in Jakarta on Tuesday.
"If the investigation and the ethics hearing confirm the reported violation, the Directorate General of Corrections will impose sanctions according to applicable regulations," she said.
House of Representatives (DPR) member Mafirion highlighted the allegation on November 27, calling it an act of discrimination and religious blasphemy, as Muslims are forbidden from consuming dog meat.
"Provisions in the KUHP clearly stipulate that acts deemed disrespectful toward religions are punishable by up to five years in prison," he said.
The legislator added that forcing inmates to eat food prohibited by their faith violates Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights.
"We are obliged to protect the human rights of inmates despite their status. Prison heads must not abuse their authority. Such conduct must not be tolerated," he said.
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Translator: Fath P, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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