Jakarta deploys over 9,000 security personnel for Independence Day events and student protests

Jakarta deploys over 9,000 security personnel for Independence Day events and student protests

Jakarta Metropolitan Police deployed 9,242 joint security personnel across the capital on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, to provide security for 31 planned protests and 16 public activities, including events celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, which was commemorated the previous day.

The massive security operation involved 5,670 Jakarta Metropolitan Police officers, 222 precinct personnel, 1,500 military troops, and 1,850 officers from National Police headquarters, according to police spokesman Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto. The deployment represents part of an ongoing pattern of heightened security around major political events in Jakarta, following a similar operation on August 14 that mobilized 8,095 personnel for the President's State Address.

Officers were stationed at strategic locations throughout Central, East, and South Jakarta, with particular focus on areas hosting activities related to the Independence Day celebrations held under the national theme "A Sovereign, Just and Prosperous Indonesia." Monday's commemorations featured major ceremonies including a procession carrying the heirloom national flag from Monas to Merdeka Palace and an aerial display involving approximately 81 aircraft and helicopters.

Strict protocols for demonstration security

Budi emphasized that all deployed officers were strictly prohibited from carrying firearms while securing public demonstrations, in line with police chief directives and standard operating procedures.

"Firearms are not allowed when providing security for public demonstrations. We will carry out our duties professionally and humanely," Budi stated during a press briefing.

While Law No. 9 of 1998 on Freedom to Express an Opinion in Public protects the right to peaceful assembly, the legislation requires organizers to notify police at least 24 hours in advance with details about the purpose, location, time, and expected number of participants. The law's Article 6 mandates that citizens must respect the rights and freedoms of others when exercising their right to freedom of expression.

Traffic management and protest locations

Authorities advised demonstration organizers to avoid concentrating rallies around the Hotel Indonesia Traffic Circle, the Horse Statue, Semanggi, and Sudirman areas, citing their importance as vital economic, hotel, and public transportation hubs. The HI Roundabout, despite its historical significance for political demonstrations, is not designated by Jakarta authorities as an official protest zone and serves as a bustling center for commercial activity surrounded by five-star hotels, business centers, and luxury retail outlets.

Police announced that traffic diversions around the HI Traffic Circle, National Monument, and Jalan Merdeka Selatan would be implemented as needed. Budi urged residents to monitor official police social media channels for real-time traffic updates, particularly as authorities expected the day's demonstrations to significantly affect traffic flow.

Student protest plans

Among Tuesday's scheduled demonstrations was a major rally organized by the University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) under the banner "Call to Reclaim Independence." Students planned to depart from the UI campus in Depok around 11 a.m., with the protest scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Western Indonesia Time at the HI Roundabout.

The demonstration represents a continuation of BEM UI's protest activities throughout 2026. In June, the student organization held a major rally under the banner "Menuju Indonesia Bangkrut" (Towards Indonesia's Bankruptcy), where thousands of students were prevented by police and military from reaching the HI Roundabout as they voiced concerns about fuel prices, government spending, and military involvement in civilian affairs.

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police force, known as Polda Metro Jaya, is the only regional police force in Indonesia with A+ Status due to its responsibility for securing the capital. The force manages approximately 29,680 personnel and covers the greater Jakarta metropolitan area including Jakarta, Tangerang, South Tangerang, Bekasi, Bekasi Regency, and Depok.