35 Illegal Buildings Where Prostitution In Gang Royal Tambora Was Dismantled By Residents And Joint Officials

The West Jakarta Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) dismantled dozens of illegal buildings that were used as places of prostitution in the Gang Royal area, Jalan Bandengan Utara III, Pekojan, Tambora, West Jakarta, Thursday.

Head of West Jakarta Satpol PP, Agus Irwanto, said the demolition of 35 illegal buildings was carried out as a follow-up to a letter of application from PT KAI, as the owner of the land that reported illegal activities in the area.

"This is a follow-up to PT KAI's application letter regarding illegal buildings and illegal activities in the PT KAI area. After a coordination meeting at the city level with the TNI, Polri, sub-district head, and all elements of the region, it was agreed that the demolition would be carried out today," said Agus, ANTARA, Thursday, October 16.

A total of 500 joint personnel were deployed from elements of the Satpol PP, TNI, Polri, Social Service, and community leaders to carry out the demolition operation.

"There are 35 buildings and thank God for the support from the TNI and Polri, all our strengths are 500 personnel. From the Satpol PP, from elements of the Social Service, and all of them are involved. And also community leaders are involved in this activity," said Agus.

In addition, Agus said that some of the illegal buildings had been independently dismantled by residents, after receiving a warning letter from officers.

"We have done the stages, including appeals and warning letters. Two days ago some residents had carried out independent demolition," said Agus.

To prevent wild buildings from reappearing, Agus said his party together with related officials would strengthen supervision through routine patrols and cooperation with PT KAI.

"We have asked PT KAI to be more serious in maintaining its area by installing wires or barriers so as not to be used by the community. Because this is still part of the train line, and it is very dangerous if it is used as a place for public activities," he said.

To note, the Gang Royal area was once the location of commercial sex workers (PSK). The West Jakarta City Government has also carried out a total demolition in 2023.