Jakarta Cathedral parish priest Stefanus Bratakartana SJ, affectionately known as Romo Broto, said that he trusted the police to carry out their duties to safeguard the celebration. However, the cathedral would also deploy its own internal security force to secure the event.

“We are preparing our internal security forces to operate inside the area of the church. Outside of the church’s fence, the security duties belong to the police and we believe in them,” he told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday.

Last month, the Samarinda Police in East Kalimantan arrested a man who threw Molotov cocktails at the Oikumene Christian Church in Sengkotek subdistrict after Sunday mass, killing a toddler and injuring several others.

(Read also: Injured toddler dies following Samarinda church attack)

The National Police previously stated that they will heighten security measures at churches throughout the country in the approach to Christmas in order to prevent any attacks aimed at Christian communities.

“Basically, people who are practicing religions do not need to be protected, but apparently it [the protection] seems necessary now,” Romo Broto added.

National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Rikwanto previously said that the police would deploy officers to every church in order to guard against any terrorist attacks.

“Our officers will directly coordinate with church organizers to discuss security details needed,” he said on Tuesday. (fac)

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