Bandung forms anti-robbery task force with police to combat street crime
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has partnered with the West Java Police's Mobile Brigade (Brimob) to combat street crime, particularly "begal" (robbery).
- A joint anti-robbery task force has been formed to address the perceived increase in violent incidents involving robbery.
- The mayor stated that while the situation is not yet critical, preventative measures are being taken, with Brimob units to participate in joint patrols.
Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan is collaborating with the West Java Police's Mobile Brigade (Brimob) to tackle the rising issue of "begal," or street robberies, in the city. A joint task force has been established to prevent and prosecute these crimes.
"Yes, an anti-begal team, because we are also seeing a tendency for an increase in violent cases involving robbery. Then, we will also carry out various forms of cooperation for joint patrols," Mayor Farhan announced Tuesday at Bandung City Hall. He indicated that Batalyon A of the West Java Brimob would be involved in maintaining security and comfort in Bandung, a popular tourist destination.
Yes, an anti-begal team, because we are also seeing a tendency for an increase in violent cases involving robbery. Then, we will also carry out various forms of cooperation for joint patrols.
While the mayor stopped short of calling the situation a "state of emergency," he emphasized the importance of proactive prevention. "It's not an emergency, but before it becomes an emergency, it's better to prevent it now," he said. Farhan mentioned receiving weekly reports of robbery incidents, underscoring the need for the new task force, which will work alongside the existing Prabu team, to enhance law enforcement capabilities.
Farhan also expressed concern about the influence of alcohol on crime, referencing recent incidents. The deployment of Brimob aims to deter potential offenders and reassure residents and visitors, particularly as the city prepares for increased activity.
It's not an emergency, but before it becomes an emergency, it's better to prevent it now.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.