Police Tighten Security on Merak-Tangerang Toll Road to Prevent Protesters from Sumatra

Authorities are implementing heightened security measures along the Merak-Tangerang toll road in anticipation of a planned demonstration in Jakarta on Thursday, August 27. The focus is on preventing the movement of protesters traveling from outside Java, particularly from the island of Sumatra.

According to Ipda Tri Leksono, Head of Public Relations for the Tangerang City Police, the security tightening is a direct response to information about planned departures of demonstrators from Lampung and various other regions in Sumatra. "Information suggests there are plans for departures from Lampung and Sumatra, and movements are expected, which is why we are strengthening security on the toll road," Tri stated.

In addition to the toll road, police will also conduct checks and establish blockades on arterial routes, specifically the Raya Serang road leading to Jakarta. These checks will target vehicles suspected of being used to transport large numbers of protesters, such as buses and open-bed trucks. "We must be more selective in our checks and tighten them further. Especially since last year's protests, the majority were students," Tri explained.

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Information suggests there are plans for departures from Lampung and Sumatra, and movements are expected, which is why we are strengthening security on the toll road.

The demonstration, scheduled to take place in front of the House of Representatives building, is expected to involve various community groups. One of the participating elements is the Alliance of United Pati Community (AMPB). Their demands include urging the House of Representatives to promptly pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill and to implement maximum penalties, including the death penalty, for corruptors.

Meanwhile, the Tangerang City Education Office has issued a circular to school principals. It advises parents and guardians to accompany their children, especially during school dismissal times, due to the potential disruption from the protests. The circular aims to ensure the safety and well-being of students traveling to and from school.

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We must be more selective in our checks and tighten them further. Especially since last year's protests, the majority were students.