Morowali, Beritasatu.com. Police in Central Sulawesi are investigating a deadly assault and subsequent riot at the Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP), a major nickel processing hub, after unrest erupted Friday night in Bahodopi, Morowali Regency.

The violence, which involved vandalism, looting, and the torching of vehicles, was reportedly sparked by the death of a 19-year-old worker identified as MR, on Thursday. Police said MR died from injuries sustained in an alleged assault the previous day in Labota village, Bahodopi, after being accused of theft.

Morowali Police Chief Zulkarnain told reporters that 18 witnesses have been questioned and four individuals have been detained for their suspected roles in the incident. They include a member of the Central Sulawesi Police, identified as G, along with three security officers: J, S, and R.

“The four are likely to become suspects, but the designation will depend on further investigation. More names could be added,” Zulkarnain said, adding that seized evidence includes a black Wuling car, a 1.9-meter hose, and the victim’s black boxer shorts. Police are still searching for additional evidence such as handcuffs.

Based on witness accounts, MR was allegedly beaten until critically injured and later died. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and avoid being provoked by unverified information.

The Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park, located on Sulawesi’s eastern coast, is one of the world’s largest integrated nickel and stainless steel production complexes. Spanning more than 3,000 hectares, the park hosts dozens of smelters and processing facilities operated by Indonesian and Chinese firms, including Tsingshan Holding Group

IMIP’s Head of Media Relations, Dedi Kurniawan, said the facility remains operational despite the unrest. “The case is being handled by Morowali Police,” he told Beritasatu.com via WhatsApp on Saturday.