Central Java Police arrest 105 suspects in robbery, theft and motorcycle theft cases in May 2026

Central Java Police have arrested 105 suspects across 61 cases of robbery, aggravated theft, and motorcycle theft during May 2026, affecting 69 victims. The details were disclosed during a press conference held at the Borobudur Building of the Central Java Police headquarters on Friday (29/5) afternoon, led by Deputy Police Chief Brigadier General Latif Usman, accompanied by Police Public Relations Chief Commissioner Artanto and Criminal Investigation Directorate Chief Commissioner M. Anwar Nasir.

The Criminal Investigation Directorate chief explained that aggravated theft cases (27) were the most common, followed by motorcycle theft (25) and robbery (9). Modus operandi varied, including breaking into homes and places of worship, using ‘T-keys’ to steal motorcycles, and armed robbery at night.

One prominent case involved a series of motorcycle thefts in the former Pati Residency area. Police arrested AG (34), a Pati resident suspected of committing crimes at eight different locations.

‘The suspect targeted motorcycles in crowded areas and open parking lots using fake ’T-keys’. During one incident at a dangdut music performance in Kedalingan, he reportedly stole a victim’s motorcycle within seconds amid a crowded audience,’ the director said.

The suspect was apprehended on 8 May 2026 at a Margorejo gas station in Pati while allegedly attempting another theft in Kayen. Police also recovered stolen vehicles from various areas in the former Pati Residency following further investigation.

AGGRAVATED THEFT CASES

The Central Java Police also uncovered a specialised church theft case involving suspect BU (38), a Boyolali resident. The suspect targeted quiet rural churches at night, breaking in through doors and windows to steal musical instruments and audio equipment.

During the investigation, police discovered that the suspect sold some stolen items on social media at low prices, which became a key clue in solving the case.

‘Five churches in Boyolali and Semarang Regency were targeted, with total losses amounting to hundreds of millions of rupiah,’ he added.

Another prominent case occurred in Patean, Kendal Regency, where two repeat offenders were arrested for allegedly robbing an 18-year-old woman at gunpoint using a machete.

During the incident, the suspects stole the victim’s mobile phone and cash at a pond area in Patean. Police also arrested a fence who bought the stolen goods.

‘To prevent street robberies, we conduct regular patrols in high-risk areas at specific times. Officers patrol in plainclothes every night, and we also support patrols across regional police stations,’ the director stressed.

Regarding the purchase of bladed weapons used in street crimes and riots, police are investigating those suspected of selling and distributing dangerous items.

‘We have already uncovered several purchases of bladed weapons and are further investigating to prevent their use in criminal activities,’ he added.

STOLEN VEHICLES

At the conclusion of the press conference, Deputy Police Chief Brigadier General Latif Usman invited motorcycle theft victims to reclaim their vehicles at the Central Java Police headquarters. He stated that owners need only present proof of ownership (STNK and BPKB documents) with no fees charged.

‘We invite motorcycle theft victims to collect their vehicles at the Central Java Police headquarters. Simply show STNK and BPKB documents—no fees apply,’ he said.

In response, Police Public Relations Chief Commissioner Artanto said the case resolutions reflect the Central Java Police’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant against prevalent crime methods, particularly motorcycle theft and night-time thefts.

‘We advise the public to use additional vehicle security locks, park in safe, CCTV-monitored areas, and enhance community vigilance through neighbourhood watch schemes. We also urge caution when purchasing suspiciously cheap goods that may be stolen,’ said Commissioner Artanto.

He stressed that the Central Java Police will continue to take firm action against street criminals and other conventional offenders disturbing public safety.