Transport disrupted in Indonesia's capital after unrest following protest
Several routes on the commuter rail line in Jakarta were suspended or diverted on Friday (Aug 28) while the city's bus system said its routes near the parliamentary building were impacted by road closures.
Jakarta's transport system faced disruptions on Friday (Aug 28) as a result of street protests that escalated into night-time riots. Demonstrations initiated by various groups on Thursday morning near parliament, amid heavy security, marked the anniversary of deadly anti-government protests from the previous year that lasted for two weeks.
President Prabowo Subianto's administration faced its first test during these events. Thousands of police were deployed in advance of the rallies, with demonstrators expressing dissatisfaction over government policies and calling for stricter punishment of corrupt officials. After the rally ended on Thursday evening, some individuals in black shirts continued to be seen on the streets, setting a police post ablaze and hurling objects at the police.
In response, the police deployed water cannons and tear gas. A witness heard several loud bangs near the scene, but the police did not respond immediately and had not issued a statement by Friday. Several commuter rail routes and bus routes near the parliamentary building were suspended or diverted. Toll roads near parliament were also closed.
Videos circulating on social media showed police using tear gas, though it could not be verified. Police reported arresting 65 individuals accused of attempting to incite unrest, seizing air guns, communication devices, and materials for making Molotov cocktails. Jakarta police spokesperson Budi Hermanto confirmed the rioting, stating that vandalism could disrupt social order and stability.
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