Protests erupted across Indonesia following the tragic death of motorcycle driver Affan Kurniawan, who was hit by a police vehicle in Jakarta. The incident soon ignited a national uproar, sparking thousands to take to the streets in protest the police’s actions. The occupation started Wednesday evening and extended into Thursday, gaining massive attention from city officials and media alike.
In response to the incident, President Prabowo Subianto has called for calm among the public, although he did pledge a full investigation into Kurniawan’s death. To address the growing discord, he summoned a rare display of accountability. He insisted that justice be served on behalf of the victim’s family.
Growing Unrest
Furious Grab drivers turned out en masse in a dramatic scene outside Jakarta police headquarters, an army clad in Grab’s green-and-black driver jackets. Demonstrations soon spread to other large cities such as Surabaya and Medan. Eyewitnesses said demonstrators threw rocks at the city police station, reacting furiously to the police killing.
Under torrential rain, tens of thousands of protesters crammed onto a busy, multi-lane highway in central Jakarta, calling for justice. A group of protesters violently attempted to breach the gates of the police headquarters. They even won the removal of a more than 700-pound sign from the building’s decorative stone facade. Tensions further flared as demonstrators pointed fireworks at police, the atmosphere becoming even more charged as protestors attacked the police.
“I joined the protest because I’m very concerned about the death of my fellow driver,” – Muzakir [AFP]
In response, authorities moved in with tear gas to disperse the protesters. Fights increased as officers arrested about 600 protesters. This highlights the escalating violence of the protester vs. police standoff. The recent unrest has put a national spotlight on police behavior and accountability within the police force.
Official Response
Abdul Karim, the head of the internal affairs division of the National Police, speaks to reporters. His comments came during a press conference update on the active investigation. He reiterated that police have already interrogated seven policemen alleged in Kurniawan’s death.
“We have agreed that the seven suspected violators have been proven to have violated the police ethics codes,” – Abdul Karim [ABC/wires]
Karim’s statements suggest that the police department is aware of at least some misconduct from its officers. This recognition would lead to disciplinary measures imposed on the perpetrators. Taking ownership is meant to validate the public’s understanding that law enforcement must be held accountable when they act outside the law.
National Implications
Beyond the triggering incident, the protests are symptomatic of a deeper dissatisfaction with the practices of law enforcement in Indonesia. As demonstrations spread beyond Jakarta into other major cities, it is evident that many citizens are calling for systemic changes within the police force.
Muzakir, another protester, voiced the collective sentiments of many when he stated, “We demand justice for Affan, for the perpetrators who ran him over to be tried as fairly as possible, and to be fired from their institution.”
Incredible images of the demonstration capture thousands marching through dark, rain-soaked streets. Fires burn in the background, serving as a potent reminder of the emotional toll that Kurniawan’s death has taken on Indonesian society. Authorities now face pressure not only to investigate this incident thoroughly but to address the underlying issues that have spurred such widespread protests.
