West Java Official Backs Anti-Theft Bounty Program, Calls for Holistic Security Approach

West Java Deputy Speaker Ono Surono has lauded Governor Dedi Mulyadi's program that enlists public participation in the fight against motorcycle theft and mugging through a bounty system. Surono views this community involvement as a crucial element in building a robust security framework.

However, Surono cautioned that bounties alone are insufficient for tackling criminal activity. He stressed the government's responsibility to construct a more holistic system that addresses the underlying factors contributing to the increase in crime rates. "On one hand, this policy encourages the public to actively participate in maintaining security. This aligns with the spirit of a universal security system. Besides law enforcement, the public is also involved, and that is very good," Surono stated on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

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On one hand, this policy encourages the public to actively participate in maintaining security. This aligns with the spirit of a universal security system. Besides law enforcement, the public is also involved, and that is very good.

Surono, who also chairs the West Java branch of the PDI Perjuangan party, urged the community to revive the tradition of mutual cooperation, such as neighborhood patrols (ronda malam or siskamling), as a preventive measure. He pointed to national data indicating an 11.7 percent rise in motorcycle theft cases, coinciding with a 28 percent increase in the use of online loans. "This condition shows that the community's economy is not doing well. Widespread layoffs, inflation, and difficulty in obtaining employment potentially drive an increase in criminal acts, including motorcycle theft," he explained.

Beyond enhancing public participation, Surono advocated for the government to implement a swift, simple, and responsive reporting system, ensuring easy public access to report criminal incidents through various communication channels. He also called for law enforcement to optimize personnel deployment in crime-prone areas for more effective prevention and action. In the long term, Surono believes strengthening the community's economy is vital for reducing crime. This includes promoting SMEs, expanding job opportunities, stabilizing essential goods prices, and preventing layoffs. He also highlighted the importance of reinforcing social safety nets down to the neighborhood level and engaging youth in positive activities aligned with their interests and talents to steer them away from crime.

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This condition shows that the community's economy is not doing well. Widespread layoffs, inflation, and difficulty in obtaining employment potentially drive an increase in criminal acts, including motorcycle theft.