Law Enforcement Against Perpetrators of Hate Speech Crimes on Social Media Within the Jurisdiction of the Riau Regional Police

Rudi Hidayat; M.Musa; Zulkarnain.S

doi:10.31941/pj.v25i2.8291

Authors

Rudi Hidayat Universitas Islam Riau
M.Musa Universitas Islam Riau
Zulkarnain.S Universitas Islam Riau

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31941/pj.v25i2.8291

Keywords:

hate speech; social media; law enforcement; electronic evidence;

Abstract

The growth of social media has expanded the scope of freedom of expression while simultaneously increasing the risk of hate speech spreading potentially leading to hostility, discrimination, and disruptions to social order. This study aims to analyze law enforcement actions against perpetrators of hate speech crimes via social media within the jurisdiction of the Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau), as well as the factors hindering such enforcement. The study employs an empirical juridical (or sociological) method with a descriptive approach. Primary data were obtained through interviews with one Head of the Special Criminal Investigation Unit and two investigators. The data were analyzed qualitatively using Soerjono Soekanto’s law enforcement theory and the theory of legal certainty. The analysis reveals that ideal law enforcement involves receiving reports, conducting preliminary inquiries, identifying criminal elements, securing electronic evidence, carrying out formal investigations, and coordinating with relevant parties. Key obstacles include account anonymity, content deletion, difficulties in obtaining digital data, limitations in facilities and technical expertise, and the challenge of distinguishing between freedom of opinion and hate speech. Consequently, the effectiveness of law enforcement is determined not merely by the existence of legal norms, but also by the quality of law enforcement personnel, digital infrastructure, public participation, and legal culture

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