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Security heightened in Medan churches ahead of Christmas
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A worker repairs a rattan pew at the Jakarta Cathedral in Central Jakarta on Dec.18. Churches across Indonesia are preparing for Christmas services on Dec.25. (JP/Seto Wardhana)
P
olice chief Sr.Comr. Dadang Hartanto monitored on Wednesday security preparations in several churches in Medan, North Sumatra, ahead of Christmas, which falls on Monday.
He said the inspection was aimed at ensuring Christmas services went smoothly in the city.
He hoped the presence of police officers in churches would make congregation members feel safe.
“The police have coordinated with all executive board members of churches in Medan to work together and support each other to create a calm atmosphere, especially during Christmas and New Year celebrations,” said Dadan while visiting the Western Indonesia Protestant Church (GPIB) on Jl. Diponegoro, Medan.
For Christmas and New Year’s Eve security, the police, supported by Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel and local administrations, have prepared 1,500 personnel to be deployed in 618 churches across Medan.
Some of the personnel will be dispatched to 11 security posts across the city, he went on.
“The security measures will be focused on efforts to anticipate terrorism and street crimes,” said Dadan. (ebf)
