Jakarta, ECNETNews – A week-long demonstration titled “Indonesia Gelap” reached a peak of tension on Friday night, February 21, 2025, at the Patung Kuda area in Central Jakarta.
Despite police efforts to maintain security through a persuasive approach, the protests were marred by provocative incidents, including the throwing of Molotov cocktails, firecrackers, and the burning of road barriers.
Police Maintain Control Amid Provocations
The Central Jakarta Metro Police Chief affirmed that overall, the situation remained manageable despite various provocations, with no casualties or injuries reported from either side during the protest.
“Thanks to our efforts, all demonstrations have been safe and conducive. Although provocations occurred, we prioritized a persuasive approach to maintain control,” stated the police chief on February 21, 2025.
Protesters Ignite Barriers and Throw Molotov Cocktails
According to police reports, the peak of tension occurred on Friday afternoon around 2 PM, as the number of protesters surged. By 6 PM, some demonstrators began to disperse; however, another group carried out provocative actions by igniting three orange water barriers used for road closure.
Additionally, protesters burned plastic banners and set fires using spray paint and lighters directed at security personnel. The situation escalated further when some demonstrators hurled Molotov cocktails and firecrackers at the security forces.
In response to the protests, police opted for a persuasive strategy, stepping back to avoid direct confrontation.
“We are continually working to de-escalate tensions by urging protesters not to engage in anarchic actions,” emphasized the police chief.
Police Urge Protesters to Respect Public Facilities
As the situation threatened to spiral out of control, police issued warnings to demonstrators to refrain from burning water barriers and vandalizing other public facilities.
“We ask all protesters not to burn road barriers; they are essential for traffic regulation and public safety,” a police officer announced via loudspeaker.
However, this warning went unheeded by some, with a few protesters publicly expressing indifference to the damage inflicted on public properties. “We don’t care. Those barriers can be replaced,” declared one protest participant.
Calmer Situation with No Reported Injuries or Arrests
As tensions subsided, police quickly initiated normalization efforts around the Patung Kuda area, prioritizing the repair of damaged busway separators and other public facilities. Although the demonstration included acts of vandalism, police confirmed that there were no casualties or injuries reported from either law enforcement or protesters during the week of protests.
“So far, there have been no reported injuries to either police or protesters, and no arrests were made during the protests,” stated the police chief.
Regarding allegations of pickpocketing amid the protests, police indicated they had not received any official reports on such incidents.
“We are still monitoring the situation. As of now, there have been no reports of pickpocketing to us,” he added.
To mitigate tensions throughout the protests, police coordinated with student group leaders and government representatives. The presence of a government official facilitated mediation efforts to ensure that the demonstrations remained controlled.
“We are grateful for the cooperation with student leaders and the attendance of the government official, which greatly assisted in maintaining a conducive atmosphere,” the police chief concluded.
