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Thousands arrested in nationwide crackdown on gangs, street crime
According to the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI), rampant extortion by rogue mass organizations and thugs has cost industry players operating in Indonesia hundreds of trillions of rupiah.
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Members of mass organizations take part in a brawl at the Bekasi administration plaza in southern Bekasi, West Java, on Jan. 25. (Warta Kota/Fitriyandi Al Fajri)
T
he National Police have arrested thousands of suspected gang members in a nationwide operation targeting rogue mass organizations and street crime, amid escalating reports of racketeering and extortion that business leaders say are harming the country’s economic climate.
East Java Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Jules Abraham Abast said that since the start of the operation on May 1 until May 10, authorities arrested 1,475 suspects in connection with 1,198 separate cases across the province.
However, he did not provide further details on the nature of the cases or whether the suspects were apprehended in the act.
"These arrests demonstrate our commitment to eradicating all forms of street crime that disturb public peace. This is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety and well-being of East Java residents," he said on Sunday.
He added that the police would collaborate with the military, religious leaders and other key stakeholders to strengthen "social resilience" in the province.
"We also urge the public to report any form of criminality to the authorities. Don’t be afraid to speak up, we will address the reports promptly and ensure the safety of those who come forward," he said.
Meanwhile, the North Sumatra Police arrested 855 suspects in connection with 753 cases of illegal levies, extortion, harassment and mass assaults as part of the nationwide operation, Tempo reported.
