TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The East Java Regional Police reported handling 1,198 thuggery cases between May 1 and May 10, 2025, with 1,475 individuals named as suspects. According to Commissioner Jules Abraham Abast, Head of Public Relations for the East Java Police, the crackdown took place during Operation Pekat II Semeru.
Abast said the operation targeted 118 specific cases involving 177 suspects, while 158 additional non-targeted cases led to around 201 suspects. The force also dealt with 922 minor criminal offense (tipiring) cases, resulting in 1,097 arrests.
“So, this repressive measure is not only about law enforcement, but also part of the long-term strategy of the East Java Regional Police in creating a sense of security and comfort for the community, especially in East Java,” said Abast in a statement on Monday, May 12.
He said thuggery practices are increasingly troubling the public and may threaten national security and the investment climate if left unaddressed. In an academic context, Abast described thuggery as a form of organized crime that can escalate into more complex offenses.
"That's why, together with all regional units, the East Java Regional Police, in this case, the district police, approach this through early detection, preventive measures, and repressive actions," he added.
Abast encouraged the public to report any incidents of thuggery, assuring that complainants will be legally protected.
"Report immediately if you experience or witness thuggish acts, and we will take swift action," he said.
The Indonesian National Police began nationwide anti-thuggery operations on May 1, following the issuance of Police Chief Telegram STR/1081/IV/OPS.1.3./2025. As of May 9, authorities claimed to have handled 3,326 cases in nine days.
“We will not tolerate acts of intimidation, extortion, or violence carried out by individuals or groups posing as community organizations,” said Police Public Relations Head Inspector General Sandi Nugroho on Friday, as quoted by Antara.
He also highlighted several significant crackdowns, including the arrest of nine suspects in Subang’s industrial area and 85 others in Tangerang.
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