Bajaj Driver Allegedly Extorted in Tanah Abang, Daily Levy Reportedly Reaches Rp 100,000

JAKARTA — A video showing a bajaj driver allegedly being extorted by two men in the Tanah Abang area of Central Jakarta went viral on social media on Saturday (11/4/2026). In the video, the bajaj driver admits to having to pay up to Rp 100,000 per day to avoid intimidation. According to a post by the Instagram account @jakarta.terkini, there are suspicions of thuggish activities involving protection money demands against bajaj drivers in the Tanah Abang area. Shortly after, another man wearing a hoodie and a white cap approached the bajaj and asked the driver for something. The incident was recorded by a woman who was a passenger in the bajaj. “Ah, that’s bad,” said the man to the bajaj driver. “Wasn’t it already given earlier?” asked the bajaj passenger. “I know, it was already given,” the bajaj driver replied. Nevertheless, the man in the white cap demanded again. “Really, Bang, if not yet, then not yet, Bang,” he said. “It’s done, it’s done,” the bajaj driver responded while handing over a Rp 2,000 banknote to the man. After the incident, the bajaj passenger inquired about the alleged extortion. “Is it always like that in Tanah Abang, Bang? What were they asking for? But is it extortion or what, Bang?” asked the passenger. “Yes, extortion,” he said.