Protest From Hundreds Of Truck Drivers, Banjarmasin Police Chief Promises Strict Action At Gas Stations That Raise Solar Prices Unilaterally

Demonstrations of hundreds of truck drivers in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan/ANTARA

BANJARMASIN - The Head of the Banjarmasin Police, South Kalimantan, Grand Commissioner Rachmat Hendrawan promised to take firm action against public fuel stations (SPBU) that unilaterally increased subsidized diesel prices.

"If there are complaints from truck drivers buying diesel in excess of the subsidy price set by the government, we will take firm action at the gas stations," he said in Banjarmasin, quoted by Antara, Monday, November 1st.

Rachmat directly led the security of the peaceful protest of hundreds of truck drivers on Gubernur Soebarjo Street or around the Trisakti Port area of Banjarmasin who demanded action against the practice of slashing fuel.

Responding to the complaint, he admitted that he immediately coordinated with gas stations, especially in the jurisdiction of the Banjarmasin Police so that prohibited practices that harm truck drivers would not happen again.

"If it is necessary for our members to be present at the gas station, we are ready to deploy troops. Do not let thuggery acts happen," he said.

Banjarmasin Police Chief, South Kalimantan, Grand Commissioner Rachmat Hendrawan

While alluding to the demand for an additional diesel quota requested by truck drivers, Rachmat revealed the results of a meeting of driver representatives with Pertamina, the South Kalimantan DPRD, and the regional government which was mediated by his party to agree that a 100 percent diesel fuel quota would be proposed, both for subsidies and industry.

"Later on, the governor will propose to the center to increase the quota so that all the diesel needs for truck drivers can be met," said the Banjarmasin Police Chief.

Rachmat thanked the drivers for maintaining order during the action on the road so that the conduciveness of the area was maintained.