Protesters surround court for ex-Pati Regent Sudewo; police take 1.5 hours to evacuate

A court session for former Pati Regent Sudewo in Semarang, Central Java, erupted into chaos on Monday (June 29, 2026), as supporters blocked the vehicle intended to transport him back to detention.

Police officers required approximately 1.5 hours to escort the tactical vehicle carrying Sudewo out of the Semarang Corruption Court. The disruption followed Sudewo's recess hearing, during which his supporters surrounded the vehicle, preventing its departure. The situation escalated after a prior scuffle between supporters and a KPK detention guard.

The initial disturbance began around 10:15 AM when Sudewo was escorted from the courtroom. As the non-active regent attempted to greet his supporters, a KPK detention guard allegedly pulled him towards the waiting vehicle. This led to a confrontation before Sudewo was moved to a Polrestabes Semarang tactical vehicle around 10:30 AM for transport back to the Semarang detention center.

Sudewo's supporters blocked the vehicle, demanding an apology from the KPK officer accused of using excessive force. Police engaged in negotiations with coordinators from Pati Regency to resolve the standoff. The incident highlights the strong support Sudewo commands among his constituents, leading to a volatile scene outside the courthouse.