Indonesia Conducts Military-Police Patrols To Maintain Public Order

By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar

JAKARTA, Sept 1 (BERNAMA) -- Indonesia has deployed joint military and police patrols nationwide since Sunday to safeguard public order following public concern over reports of riots and looting in several hotspots.

Deputy National Police Chief Dedi Prasetyo said police personnel across provinces and districts have been instructed to carry out large-scale patrols together with the military, extending their reach to the neighbourhood level.

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“The objective is clear: to ensure the safety of communities from rioters and anarchic elements. We are here to protect every life, property, and public facility,” he said in a statement on Monday.

The move came after several incidents in which legislative buildings, police premises, and public facilities were damaged, while the homes of lawmakers and ministers were also targeted.

Dedi said security at police facilities would be strengthened to prevent intrusions and to protect families, detainees, and hazardous materials inside.

The public has been urged to cooperate in safeguarding their neighbourhoods by reporting any suspicious activity to break the continuity of the spate of crime and to ensure a sense of security prevails.

Commenting on the widespread coverage across various media platforms, including social media, Dedi advised the public to remain calm and not be swayed by provocations or the spread of false information that could spark panic.

He also assured that security forces would act “professionally, considerately, and in accordance with the law while upholding human rights.”

“With regular patrols, a persuasive approach, and full community support, we are confident the situation will soon return to normal,” he stressed.

A survey in Kuningan, South Jakarta – an area housing business centres, residences, and several embassy complexes – on Sunday night showed daily activities continuing as usual, traffic flowing smoothly, and a strong police presence patrolling the area.

Traffic in Jakarta on Monday morning was smooth following advice from the provincial government for offices to implement work-from-home arrangements, while educational institutions shifted to remote learning.

Jakarta Metro Jaya Traffic Police Management Centre reported that several main routes remained under control, including the Inner City Highway at the Cawang Interchange at 8.49 am local time.

The Indonesian capital and several major cities have seen a series of demonstrations since last Monday, with people from various walks of life taking to the streets with political and economic demands. 

--BERNAMA