Muhammad Naufal Zidan, Indonesian student, Died at 19

Muhammad Naufal Zidan: Tragic Loss of a Promising Student

Muhammad Naufal Zidan was a young, ambitious student with a bright future ahead. Born on 13 July 2004 in Lumajang, East Java, he embarked on his academic journey, driven by a passion for Russian literature. Tragically, his life was cut short on 2 August 2023, when he was brutally murdered in his dorm room in Kukusan, Beji.

Early Life and Education

Muhammad Naufal Zidan, son of Shohibi Arif and Elvira Rustina, grew up in a loving family. He pursued his academic interests and enrolled in the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Indonesia, specializing in Russian literature in 2022. A diligent and dedicated student, he was in his second year at the university, aspiring to excel in his chosen field.

The Horrific Murder

On the fateful evening of 2 August 2023, Zidan was escorted to his lodge house by his senior, Altafasalya Ardnika Basya. Unbeknownst to Zidan, this act of companionship would take a horrifying turn. Basya, grappling with financial losses from ill-fated cryptocurrency investments, succumbed to desperation. He attacked Zidan, resulting in a tragic loss of life.

Investigation and Arrest

The investigation swiftly led to the arrest of Altafasalya Ardnika Basya, a 23-year-old University of Indonesia student. Basya, facing academic and financial challenges, confessed to the crime. He had suffered substantial losses in cryptocurrency investments, leading to a dire financial situation. The police uncovered evidence linking Basya to the crime, including Zidan's belongings found at his residence.

Grieving and Reactions

The news of Zidan's untimely demise sent shockwaves through the University of Indonesia community and beyond. University authorities expressed their condolences and cooperated with the ongoing police investigation. The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board, along with many individuals, mourned the loss and called for a thorough evaluation of the university's security measures.

The tragedy sparked a wider conversation about the safety of students, prompting reflection and concerns about similar cases within the University of Indonesia community. It also shed light on the challenges faced by students in the increasingly complex world of cryptocurrency investments.

Muhammad Naufal Zidan's murder serves as a painful reminder of the importance of campus safety and the need for vigilance in an ever-changing society. His memory lives on as a symbol of the quest for justice and the aspiration for a safer academic environment for all.