KontraS: 24 arrested in Surabaya protest after police intervention

A protest in Surabaya, Indonesia, organized under the hashtag #IndonesiaSekarat (Indonesia at Death's Door), escalated into violence on Friday, June 26, 2026, leading to the arrest of 24 individuals, including a woman activist. The Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS) Surabaya reported the incident, detailing the police's actions.

“

After pushing back the demonstration, the police began to arrest the protesters sporadically and forcibly dragging them into the Grahadi building.

According to Zaldi Maulana of KontraS Surabaya's Advocacy Team, the demonstration began peacefully around 3:30 p.m. local time in front of the Grahadi State Building. However, police reportedly encircled the crowd and began using water cannons and tear gas around 7:10 p.m., pushing protesters back towards a fountain. Maulana stated that plainclothes officers were also present among the demonstrators.

KontraS alleged that the arrests were arbitrary, with many individuals being chased and detained without clear reasons. By Saturday morning, 24 people, including one woman, had been arrested and taken to the Surabaya Metro Police. The Advocacy Team urged the police to release all arrested protesters and ensure they receive adequate legal assistance.

“

Until Saturday at 1:26 a.m., we recorded that 24 people, including one woman, had been arrested by the police. They were taken to the Surabaya Metro Police.

The protest specifically targeted several government policies and programs. Demonstrators called for the cessation of the free nutritious meal (MBG) program and the Red and White Village Cooperatives, viewing them as detrimental.

“

They continued to vandalize and endangered the public and themselves. Therefore, we were forced to take decisive action by pushing the crowd backward.

Surabaya Metro Police Chief Commissioner Luthfie Setiawan offered a different account, stating that police attempted to redirect the crowd towards Balai Pemuda. He claimed the protesters engaged in vandalism and endangered the public, forcing the police to take decisive action. Several demonstrators, including a female activist, were arrested on accusations of being provocateurs, with the police chief indicating that investigations were ongoing and those found guilty would face legal processing.

“

Currently, data collection and examination are still ongoing. Those found guilty will be processed according to applicable law.