Criticized for Bounty Program, West Java Governor Asserts Protection for Victims and Perpetrators

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has responded to criticism from Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai regarding his controversial bounty program for capturing muggers. Mulyadi asserted that the initiative, offering rewards of up to Rp50 million (approximately $3,100 USD), is designed to protect both victims and the alleged perpetrators.

"Everything is starting to feel safe, the citizens are becoming brave. The authorities are very vigilant right now. I express my gratitude for the criticism from the Human Rights Minister, who reminded me not to violate the human rights of criminals by resorting to vigilantism," Mulyadi stated, as quoted on Wednesday (July 29, 2027).

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I express my gratitude for the criticism from the Human Rights Minister, who reminded me not to violate the human rights of criminals by resorting to vigilantism.

He acknowledged that the minister's reminder brought back memories of previous criticism regarding military barracks accused of human rights violations. Mulyadi expressed his thanks to the minister for the reminder to prevent human rights abuses.

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The victims of crime are victims of human rights violations. They have lost their safety and protection from the state. They have lost their property, even their lives.

Mulyadi further elaborated on the rationale behind the bounty program. He argued that victims of crime suffer violations of their human rights, losing their safety and property, and sometimes their lives. He also pointed out the issue of victims being unable to claim medical expenses from BPJS (Indonesia's national health insurance) after being hospitalized.

The governor assured that victims would still receive hospital treatment, guaranteed by the West Java Provincial Government. He stated his understanding of this issue, having frequently encountered victims of crime who could not afford medical care. Additionally, Mulyadi noted that perpetrators often sustain injuries from public beatings and require medical attention, the costs of which are frequently unaddressed. "I have helped perpetrators of crime because hospitals have to bear significant costs. The West Java Provincial Government is present to protect both," he concluded.

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I have helped perpetrators of crime because hospitals have to bear significant costs. The West Java Provincial Government is present to protect both.