Indonesia’s crackdown on riot suspects draws criticism of overreach

The police in Indonesia have named 959 people, including over 200 children, as suspects in the incitement of riots during a wave of anti-government protests in late August, a staggering figure that prompted stern criticism of an overreach in the crackdown by security forces.

- 

On Sept 24, the National Police’s Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) released its records of people arrested by national and regional security forces in 15 regions.

They were named as suspects for allegedly inciting violent riots during protests held between Aug 25 and 31 in various parts of the country.

The protests, which continued into early September, stemmed from public discontent over government officials’ insensitivity about the economic hardships faced by the public.

Peaceful demonstrations escalated, with police brutality coming to the fore after the death of 21-year-old “ojol” (online motorcycle transport driver) Affan Kurniawan, who was hit by a police tactical vehicle.

In a live-streamed press briefing on Sept 24, Commissioner-General Syahardiantono, head of Bareskrim, said the police named the 959 people as suspects for their alleged direct roles in arson and vandalism against public facilities and government buildings.