The National Police Investigates the Spread of Hoax Video of Demonstration on Social Media

JAKARTA - The National Police of the Republic of Indonesia (Polri) is investigating the spread of hoax videos related to the demonstration that circulated on social media. The video is known to be a recording of an old event that was re-uploaded as if it described the current condition.

National Police Chief General Pol Listyo Sigit Prabowo said the investigation team was conducting an in-depth investigation to uncover the spread of information that was considered misleading. "Currently, the team is conducting an in-depth investigation. Later, we will inform you," he said in Jakarta, Wednesday, August 5.

The National Police Chief reminded the public to use freedom of expression responsibly and not to spread information that does not conform to facts.

"Of course there is freedom, but don't do things that are inherently violating, especially then make false news, especially take actions that are certainly violating the law," said Listyo Sigit Prabowo.

Previously, a video that claimed to show a demonstration in Jakarta circulated widely on social media. However, after being investigated, the video was found to be a recording of a demonstration that took place last year.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs (Menko Polkam) Djamari Chaniago emphasized that the circulating video was a hoax and did not reflect the current condition. According to Djamari, the old video was deliberately uploaded again to mislead the public with incorrect information.

"I declare that the video is not true. There is no such thing in Indonesia, in our country there are hoaxes like that. Maybe it happened in the past. In the future there is none," said Djamari.

Djamari also emphasized that the government together with law enforcement would trace the social media account that spread the hoax video. If there is a criminal element, the perpetrator will be processed according to applicable laws.

"We will find the account. If it happens, there are indications and can meet the provisions of criminal offenses, we will do that and we will take firm action for that," said Djamari.

The National Police appealed to the public to be more careful in verifying information before sharing it on social media to prevent the spread of hoaxes that could cause unrest among the public.