Central Java Police Allow Officers to Shoot Muggers When Necessary

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, SEMARANG – Director of General Criminal Investigation for Central Java Police, Police Commissioner Muhammad Anwar Nasir, stated that officers are permitted to take firm action, including shooting suspects dead, in handling muggings and street gangs. However, fatal shootings are only permitted when suspects’ actions threaten officers or the public. Anwar revealed that in May 2026, Central Java Police and its regional offices handled 61 cases of violent theft (curas), aggravated theft (curat), and motor vehicle theft (curanmor). Curas cases, including muggings, accounted for nine cases with 24 suspects. There were 15 victims of curas. Regarding curas cases, including street gang crimes, Anwar stated that Central Java Police has deployed Resmob (Mobile Brigade) officers to assist regional police units. Anwar said officers are allowed to take firm and measured action in handling these cases. Field officers are able to assess the severity and threat level, necessitating firm action. ‘If there is a danger, if lives are threatened for officers or the public, then shooting dead will certainly be carried out,’ Anwar said during an interview at Central Java Police headquarters in Semarang on Friday (29/5/2026). However, such shootings must meet specific standards. ‘It does not mean all suspects are treated equally. Of course not,’ Anwar said. Central Java Police and regional offices will increase night patrols to prevent and anticipate muggings. ‘To prevent muggings, we regularly patrol high-risk areas at specific times. Patrols are conducted every night by officers in plainclothes. We also support patrols across regional police units,’ he said. Anwar added that Central Java Police is currently investigating arms purchases by gangs for fights and crimes. ‘We have uncovered several cases of sharp weapon purchases and are further investigating to prevent such weapons from being used in criminal acts,’ he said.