Indonesia Protests Lead to Casualties, Missing Persons
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By Anya Sharma | Jakarta – 2025/09/02 12:19:30
Demonstrations across Indonesia have resulted in eight fatalities and over 700 injuries, with at least 20 protesters reported missing. Human rights organizations reported receiving 23 missing person reports as of yesterday, with only three individuals located thus far. The United Nations is urging Indonesia to investigate the alleged excessive use of force by police against protesters, while the Indonesian government has deployed troops to the parliament building.
Arrest of Volunteer Leader
A volunteer leader has been arrested on charges of incitement amidst the ongoing protests.
AFP reported that the human rights group Missing and Violence Victims (Kontras) stated they received reports of 23 missing protesters. Following investigations, 20 remain missing from cities including Bandung and Debo. The police have not yet responded to inquiries from AFP.
President Prabowo recently issued a warning that action would be taken against demonstrators. Jakarta police have arrested 1,240 protesters, including delpedro Marhaen, the director of a volunteer institution, accused of inciting illegal activities.
“sacrificed”
the United Nations issued a statement expressing close monitoring of the demonstrations, including accusations of unnecessary and excessive force by security forces. The UN emphasized the importance of dialogue and addressing public concerns, stating that authorities must uphold the right to peaceful demonstration and freedom of expression while maintaining order. The statement also urged Indonesia to conduct a timely, thorough, and clear investigation into all allegations of international human rights law violations.
Economic Impact of Demonstrations
The Indonesian government estimates notable economic losses due to the ongoing demonstrations.
security has been heightened in the capital, with the army deployed to Jakarta. Hundreds of soldiers were stationed near Congress yesterday. Prabowo criticized the protesters’ violence during a hospital visit to injured police officers, acknowledging that some officers may have erred but emphasizing the “sacrifices” made by dozens.
The Jakarta Post reported that Economy Minister Airlangga Hartarto stated the demonstrations have resulted in eight deaths. Jakarta Mayor Pramono Anung reported over 700 injuries in the capital. Minister of Works Dody Hanggodo estimates infrastructure losses of IDR 900 billion (approximately HKD 425 million yuan).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the main causes of the protests in Indonesia?
- The protests are driven by a combination of economic grievances, political dissatisfaction, and social inequalities.
- What is the government’s response to the protests?
- The government has deployed troops, arrested protesters, and warned against illegal activities.
- What is the international community’s reaction to the situation?
- The United Nations has called for investigations into the use of force and emphasized the importance of upholding human rights.
