Indonesian Army assists police in combating street crime

The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) is actively supporting the National Police in tackling street crime, particularly muggings, through operations classified as "military operations other than war" (OMSP). This collaboration aims to enhance public security and provide a visible deterrent against criminal activity.

Brig. Gen. Donny Pramono, head of the TNI AD Information Service, explained that the army's involvement is formalized through official requests from the police, adhering to Indonesia's Defense Law and the TNI Law. "Assistance is carried out in accordance with legal provisions in tasks of military operations other than war and based on official requests from the police," Pramono stated during a press conference.

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Assistance is carried out in accordance with legal provisions in tasks of military operations other than war and based on official requests from the police.

He clarified that the TNI AD's role is strictly supportive and does not involve law enforcement powers, which remain exclusively with the Indonesian National Police. The army's contribution focuses on joint patrols and community engagement, including educating the public on preventing street crime in a humane manner. This partnership underscores a commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the safety of citizens across the country.

This initiative follows approval from the Commander of the TNI, Gen. Agus Subiyanto, who has authorized TNI personnel to assist the police in handling mugging incidents. The military's presence is intended to bolster the police's efforts and assure the public of their protection against such crimes, without directly engaging in arrests or legal proceedings.

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There is no special instruction from the TNI commander for operations to eradicate mugging, but he approves or allows TNI ranks to do so with the principle that the presence of soldiers in the field is part of helping the Polri.