Indonesian Lawmakers Back Military Role in Fighting Street Crime

Indonesian lawmakers have voiced support for the military's engagement in tackling street crime, framing it as a necessary aid to the police force. Syamsu Rizal, a member of Commission I of the House of Representatives, stated that the involvement of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in handling mugging incidents is permissible as it supports police efforts.

Rizal echoed the sentiment of TNI Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak, who noted that muggers fear soldiers, thus deterring their criminal activities. "If muggers fear soldiers, it means the TNI has authority," Rizal commented in a written statement on Sunday, June 14, 2026. However, he clarified that this does not imply the police are incapable of addressing the recent surge in muggings. He believes that tackling street crime should not solely fall on the police's shoulders.

The politician from the National Awakening Party emphasized that combating mugging is a collective responsibility involving all stakeholders. "It's not just the police's job, but also the local government, sub-district heads, village heads, the TNI, and citizens," Rizal said. He further noted the existing good coordination between the police and TNI in addressing public security issues, urging for continued strengthening of this synergy to maintain public order.

Despite the military's supportive role, Rizal reiterated that legal enforcement and criminal proceedings against muggers remain within the police's purview. "The police have the authority in the investigation, prosecution, and law enforcement processes against perpetrators," he stated. He also suggested that preventive measures, such as enhanced neighborhood surveillance, patrols, community guidance, and inter-agency coordination, should be prioritized to address the rise in mugging incidents.