Jakarta. Five of the seven bodies pulled from the Bekasi River remain unclaimed as forensic pathologists struggle to identify them, police said on Tuesday.

The bodies were discovered floating in the river early Sunday, but authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of death or the circumstances surrounding the fatalities.

Two of the victims have been identified as Muhammad Rizky, 19, and Ahmad Dafi, 16, through their personal belongings, dental records, and fingerprints, which were confirmed by family members.

Brig. Gen. Nyoman Eddy Purnama Wirawan, head of the police pathologist division, said no relatives have come forward to claim the remaining five bodies, and the identification process has been prolonged due to the lack of assistance from individuals who may recognize the deceased.

“It’s been more than 24 hours since the bodies were found, and we need to gather all the necessary data with precision,” he said at a press conference at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital in East Jakarta.

The forensic team is prioritizing accuracy over speed in handling the identification process, he added.

None of the victims were carrying identification when their bodies were recovered in the Jakarta suburb of Bekasi.

Jakarta Police Chief Insp. Gen. Karyoto suggested that the deaths may be connected to the mass arrest of teenagers suspected of involvement in a gang fight based on witness testimonies.

The seven young men reportedly attempted to escape a police chase by jumping into the river after dozens of their peers were arrested on Saturday evening.

Earlier that night, police apprehended 18 teenagers in the Rawalumbu district of Bekasi for allegedly participating in a gang fight, Karyoto said.

“We arrested 18 individuals, three of whom have been charged with carrying sharp weapons,” Karyoto explained.

Several other teenagers fled, with some jumping into the river to avoid arrest, he added.

However, Karyoto urged caution in drawing conclusions, noting that investigations are ongoing and that police continue to interview witnesses.

Family members held a prayer service for Rizky after his body was returned to their home in Rawalumbu, Bekasi, on Tuesday evening.

Nisin, a relative of Rizky, expressed understanding that his body had been kept for a few days for the investigation.

Rizky had been living with his grandfather after both his parents passed away. He had recently graduated from high school and was seeking employment before his untimely death, Nisin said.

“He was a cheerful boy who always had a smile for everyone,” Nisin added.

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