Do not hold mass prayers on the streets: Jakarta Police chief

Jakarta Police Chief Insp. Gen. Untung S. Rajab has asked Muslims in Jakarta not to hold mass prayers on the streets, especially on New Year’s Eve.

“It would be better if they held prayers in open fields or in mosques, not on the streets; not only on New Year’s Eve but on regular days as well,” Untung said on Thursday as quoted by tribunnews.com.

He said holding mass prayers on streets caused traffic congestion.

“If you want to conduct religious services, do not disturb other people,” Untung said.

He added that the police would help provide spaces for mass prayers, such as in the Jakarta Police headquarters.