Chronology Of Police Cars Burned By Masses During Arrest Of Suspects In Depok

Screenshot of a burning police vehicle (ANTARA)

DEPOK The arrest of a suspect by the Depok Metro Police Criminal Investigation Unit (Satreskrim) turned into chaos and anarchism. This incident occurred on Jalan Dahlan Raya, Harjamukti Village, Cimanggis District, Depok City, in the early hours of Friday, April 18.

In the riot, a police car was burned by an angry mob, while the other three vehicles were badly damaged.

The head of the Depok Metro Police Satreskrim, AKBP Bambang Prakoso, explained that the arrest operation was carried out on the suspect with the initials TS, who was involved in two legal cases, namely the destruction/unpleasant act and the alleged possession of illegal firearms.

"The suspect's pick-up was carried out procedurally by the investigative team using four vehicles. However, the arrest process met resistance from local residents," said Bambang, quoted by ANTARA.

According to Bambang, tensions began to escalate as the masses began to gather and block access roads using iron portals and other objects.

One of the four police vehicles managed to get out of the location and take the suspect to the Depok Metro Police Headquarters, while the other three vehicles were stuck and became targeted by residents.

Our cars were damaged using wooden and stone blocks. Even one car was burned to the ground. The crowd got into the car, broke all the glass, and destroyed the inside of the vehicle," he explained.

Regarding the identity of the masses who carried out the destruction, the police are still investigating. Although we cannot confirm yet, AKBP Bambang suspects the possible involvement of figures from community organizations (ormas) who have a strong influence in the environment.

"We cannot confirm whether they are ordinary citizens or from certain groups. But there are indications of involvement of mass organization figures who are known to be close to the surrounding community," he said.

Despite being under pressure and critical situation, the Depok Metro Police Satreskrim team still managed to carry out their duties. The suspect TS was arrested and arrived at the Depok Metro Police Headquarters at around 02.00 WIB without being injured.

"The person concerned has now been secured to undergo further investigation regarding the alleged abuse and possession of illegal firearms," Bambang added.

Luckily, there were no casualties or injuries from the police and residents in the incident. However, material losses were significant due to the burning of official cars and the destruction of other vehicles.

The police are now investigating further the anarchist actions that occurred, including collecting evidence in the form of video footage circulating on social media and eyewitness testimony at the location.

The focus of the investigation will be directed at efforts to identify the perpetrators of the vandalism and find the mastermind behind the chaos that occurred.

"We will pursue and legal process anyone involved in the destruction and burning of the official car. There is no tolerance for anarchic actions," said Bambang.

The police also promised to increase security in vulnerable areas and appealed to the public not to be easily provoked and continue to submit the legal process to law enforcement officials.