Aceh Police Briefly Detain Residents After Aceh Peace Day Clash
Police briefly detained several residents following the 21st Aceh Peace Day commemoration which ended in a clash. They have since been released.
Indonesia's Aceh Regional Police detained several residents during the 21st Aceh Peace Day commemoration, which turned violent around Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh City on Saturday, August 15, 2026. The clash occurred as some participants lowered the Indonesian flag and raised the crescent moon and star flag, leading police to fire tear gas.
Two cars and a motorcycle were damaged in the ensuing chaos. Aceh Regional Police Chief Inspector General Ruddi Setiawan released the detained individuals later, per Antara. One participant, M Jamil, stated that the event aimed to promote peace and a more prosperous Acehnese society, explaining that raising the crescent moon and star flag was their gratitude expression.
Ruddi was surrounded by a crowd demanding the release of the detained participants. The police have not yet confirmed the exact number of arrests and riot-related damages but are assessing the situation's impact.
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