Extortion Rises Ahead Of Eid, Police Take Strict Action On Mass Organizations That Disrupt Investment

Karo Penmas, Police Public Relations Division, Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko/PHOTO of Police Public Relations

JAKARTA - The National Police will take action against unscrupulous community organizations (ormas) involved in acts of thuggery, especially extortion, which has an impact on hampering national economic investment.

Currently, illegal levies are rife by unscrupulous mass organizations to entrepreneurs ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

"According to the National Police Chief's commitment, the National Police will take firm action against thuggery under the guise of mass organizations. No person should use the name of a mass organization to carry out extortion, illegal levies, or actions that harm the business world and hinder investment," said Karo Penmas. Police Public Relations Division Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko in his statement, Friday, March 14.

Strict action is taken to ensure that the business world is free from threats from certain groups that abuse the name of mass organizations for personal or group interests.

However, before taking legal action, the National Police will prioritize preventive and pre-emptive steps. This effort is carried out through socialization, guidance, and coordination with various parties so that mass organizations are not trapped in unlawful acts.

"In addition to repressive actions through law enforcement, the National Police also takes a preventive and pre-emptive approach by providing understanding to members of mass organizations so as not to abuse their organization. This guidance is important so that they can contribute positively in maintaining order and supporting a conducive investment climate," he said.

In addition, the National Police is also aggressively conducting education and increasing public awareness regarding the rejection of acts of thuggery under the guise of mass organizations. This step aims to make the public better understand the modes used by certain individuals to extort or make intimidating actions against the business world.

"We continue to educate the public and business actors to be more aware of acts of thuggery under the guise of mass organizations. With a better understanding, the community can play an active role in preventing and reporting any form of disruption to investment," he added.

"We will follow up every report from entrepreneurs and investors seriously. The National Police will not hesitate to take action against unscrupulous members of mass organizations who behave as thugs and hinder investment in Indonesia," he said.

The National Police appealed to all entrepreneurs and the public not to hesitate to report any form of extortion, intimidation, or interference with investments made by certain members of mass organizations.

"We guarantee protection for whistleblowers and will follow up on each report professionally. Don't be afraid to report if you feel aggrieved by the thuggery practices of members of mass organizations, the public and entrepreneurs can report through the police service hotline 110 to report all forms of security disturbances and thuggery," said Trunoyudo.