A teacher at SMK Negeri 3 Tanjung Jabung Timur in Jambi, Agus Saputra, was reportedly attacked by a group of his own students during school hours, an incident that quickly went viral on social media.
In circulated video footage, Agus can be seen being beaten by several students, sparking public concern over discipline and the safety of educators in schools.
Agus said the attack occurred on Tuesday, January 13, following a mediation session with students that failed to reach an agreement. The incident was reportedly triggered when a student spoke to him disrespectfully during a lesson.
“The incident began when a student shouted rude words at me in front of the class,” Agus explained. He subsequently entered the classroom and asked the student involved to admit to their behavior.
One student did so but challenged him further, prompting Agus to slap the student spontaneously. “It was a reflex action intended as a moral lesson,” he said.
Tensions escalated amid claims that Agus had insulted a student by calling them “poor,” which he denied. Agus stressed that his remarks were meant to motivate students, not demean anyone. “I said in general that if we come from less privileged families, we must behave responsibly and strive to improve ourselves. That was not mockery,” he said.
During the mediation, Agus said he gave the students a choice: either submit a petition to have him removed from teaching at the school, or work on improving their behavior. However, the students demanded an apology instead, causing negotiations to fail.
Shortly afterward, as Agus was walking toward the staff room, he was attacked and beaten by several students. The teacher sustained bruises to his body and face as a result.
Agus has filed an official complaint with the Jambi Regional Education Office, urging authorities to intervene and ensure a fair resolution while safeguarding the security of teachers in schools.
