Police Arrest 4 Suspects Of Labor Day Chaos In Bandung, Bring Molotov To Sajam

West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Setiawan released a case of anarchic action during Labor Day action in Bandung City, West Java, Tuesday (6/5/2025). ANTARA/Rubby Jovan

BANDUNG - The West Java Regional Police (Polda) named four people as suspects in the anarchist act that occurred during the commemoration of Labor Day on May 1, 2025 in Bandung City.

West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Setiawan said the incident tarnished the peaceful spirit of commemorating Labor Day. There were a group of people who carried out acts of violence and destruction, including burning a patrol vehicle belonging to the Bandung Police.

"Unfortunately this May 1 warning was injured by the actions of the suspects who carried out the destruction of police vehicles and other criminal acts," said Inspector General Rudi in Bandung, Tuesday, May 6.

The Regional Police Chief explained that the incident occurred at around 15.00 to 16.00 WIB. There are allegations that the perpetrator threw Molotov cocktails and took sharp weapons to the location.

It was stated that a total of 20 bottles containing fuel had been prepared by the perpetrators, then thrown at the authorities and public facilities.

"We carried out all these processes based on valid evidence, such as examination, evidence, and witness statements," said the West Java Police Chief.

"Four suspects have been arrested, including one carrying sharp weapons," he added.

Four people named as suspects, three of whom were directly involved in the destruction of a police car and one person was caught carrying a sharp weapon.

"Friends yesterday saw it on several TV shows and the media. They were so excited, yes I saw the look on his face, the intention was to cover his face with all kinds of graffiti and all kinds of things," he said.

The four perpetrators, he continued, were not part of the labor element, but other groups whose motives and networks are currently being investigated.

"We emphasize that they are not workers. We deeply regret this because in the midst of the excitement of Labor Day, other parties appeared who rioted," he said.

As a result of his actions, the four perpetrators were charged with Articles 170, 406, and 160 of the Criminal Code for the destruction of police patrol cars. As a result of the chaos, three policemen were injured.

"Therefore, law enforcement must be carried out firmly so that incidents like this do not happen again," said the West Java Police Chief.