Police Ensure No Firearms Used in Jakarta Protest Security

September 1, 2025 | 05:19 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Central Jakarta Metro Police Chief, Commissioner General Susatyo Purnomo, confirmed that security personnel did not use firearms during the demonstration in front of the Parliament building in Jakarta on Monday, September 1, 2025. The protest, which involved several student organizations, focused on a range of recent issues that have captured public attention.

Susatyo emphasized that all officers on duty were instructed to act humanely and were prohibited from using firearms. "We are here to ensure that everything runs safely and is well-managed," he said in a written statement.

According to him, the police deployed over 5,000 personnel to secure the protest. "Specifically for the security at the DPR, there are 5,369 personnel," he added in a statement dated Monday, September 1, 2025.

Susatyo further urged protesters to maintain a peaceful environment. He specifically prohibited them from burning tires, damaging public property, or blocking roads. He also advised the public and the protesters to be wary of hoaxes circulating on social media. "Do not be provoked by negative news," Susatyo stated.

Protesters Gather at the Parliament

Based on observations, dozens of protesters had already gathered in front of the Parliament building. Attendees represented student organizations like the Indonesian National Student Movement (GMNI), the Islamic Student Association (HMI), and the Association of Catholic Students of Indonesia (PMKRI). By 2:45 p.m. Jakarta time, more students continued to arrive, carrying posters, banners, and flags.

Inside the Parliament compound, several tactical vehicles were on standby, parked approximately five meters from the main gate.

Recent Incidents Fueled Protests

Over the past few days, demonstrations have taken place in multiple regions. Initially, protesters demanded the dissolution of the House of Representatives (DPR) after reports emerged about legislators receiving substantial salaries and allowances. Additionally, some DPR members had made controversial statements, which further fueled public discontent.

Protesters also expressed disappointment with the performance of the 580 legislators, whom they claimed did not represent the interests of the wider community. The actions of some council members, who were seen dancing and responding arrogantly to public criticism, intensified the protests over the past week.

The demonstrations escalated when a motorcycle taxi driver, Affan Kurniawan, was killed by an armored vehicle of the police's mobile brigade (Brimob) on Thursday, August 28. This incident angered the public and triggered large-scale protests across the country, shifting the focus of the demonstrations toward the police force.

Police assets in various locations were subsequently attacked, and the Jakarta Metropolitan Police Headquarters was breached by demonstrators. Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo responded by ordering officers to use rubber bullets against rioters.

Editor's Choice: Over 500 Protesters Injured During Week-Long Jakarta Demonstrations

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