Central Java Police Authorise Officers to Shoot Robbers Threatening Citizens' Lives

The head of Central Java Police’s Criminal Investigation Department, Police Commissioner Muhammad Anwar Nasir, stated that personnel are permitted to take firm action, including shooting suspects, when handling street robbers and motorcycle gangs. However, fatal shootings are only authorised when suspects threaten the lives of officers or civilians.

Anwar revealed that in May 2026, Central Java Police and district offices handled 61 cases of robbery (curas), theft with aggravating circumstances (curat), and motor vehicle theft (curanmor). Robbery cases, including street robberies, accounted for nine incidents involving 24 suspects, with 15 victims.

Regarding robbery cases and street gang crimes, Anwar said Central Java Police has deployed Resmob personnel to assist district police officers. He added that officers are permitted to take firm and measured action in handling these cases.