Indonesian Police Deny Arresting Activist Botok Pati

Polda Metro Jaya, the Indonesian regional police, has denied claims that activist Supriyono, also known as Botok, was arrested. Social media had circulated videos suggesting Botok, coordinator of the Alliance of United Pati People (AMPB), was apprehended by police in front of the Parliament Building on Monday.

However, Kombes Budi Hermanto, Head of Public Relations for Polda Metro Jaya, stated that Supriyono was not arrested or detained. He explained that police had previously communicated with Supriyono and another individual, Teguh, about the necessary administrative procedures for a planned rally by people from Pati. The police advised them to obtain official permits.

The situation escalated when the group's stated intention shifted from a protest to a "gathering and collection of logistical aid." Police suggested obtaining permits, and Supriyono agreed to go to the regional police headquarters with an escort to handle the paperwork. However, onlookers mistook this for an arrest. Supriyono attempted to clarify his intentions, but the growing crowd led to the cancellation of his trip to the police station.

Hermanto emphasized that the police presence was solely to provide information on permit processes. "In principle, the presence and escort of police personnel in this incident were to explain the administrative procedures for event permits, not for the purpose of arrest or legal action against Mr. Supriyono," he said.