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View all search resultsDozens arrested in North Sumatra protest against lawmakers’ salaries
The protest began peacefully but quickly turned violent when a group of demonstrators attempted to force their way into the North Sumatra DPRD compound by toppling the front gate and hurling objects at security personnel. Tensions escalated as police began arresting several students accused of inciting the unrest, prompting fellow protesters to intervene.
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Protesters tear down the gate of the North Sumatra Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) building in Medan during a demonstration on Aug. 26, 2025. The rally called for an end to excessive salaries for members of the House of Representatives. (Antara Foto/Yudi Manar)
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t least 39 people were arrested and a journalist assaulted during a protest in Medan, North Sumatra, on Tuesday, in which demonstrators demanded an end to lawmakers' excessive salaries.
Hundreds of protesters, led by students from the North Sumatra University (USU), staged a demonstration in front of the North Sumatra Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) building on Jl. Imam Bonjol at around 2 p.m.
The protest began peacefully but quickly turned violent when a group of demonstrators attempted to force their way into the North Sumatra DPRD compound by toppling the front gate and hurling objects at security personnel. Tensions escalated as police began arresting several students accused of inciting the unrest, prompting fellow protesters to intervene.
A clash between demonstrators and authorities ensued, with police reportedly taking severe measures against protestors. The situation was only brought under control by around 7 p.m.
Read also: Protests break out against lawmakers’ excessive salaries
North Sumatra Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Ferry Walintukan said 39 protesters were arrested for allegedly inciting violence and unrest during Tuesday’s demonstration, 13 of whom have been identified as university students.
“We respect the public’s right to express their opinions, but when a protest turns violent, causing damage to public property or injuring police officers, law enforcement is obliged to take action,” he said on Tuesday.
