Central Sulawesi Police Intensify Patrols After Earthquake to Ensure Public Order

Palu (ANTARA) - The Central Sulawesi Regional Police (Polda Sulteng) are intensifying patrols and monitoring in several areas affected by the magnitude 6.7 earthquake to ensure the security and public order situation remains safe and conducive.

Head of the Public Information Sub-section of the Central Sulawesi Police Public Relations Division, Kompol Reky Moniung, said in Palu on Tuesday that patrols were being carried out by personnel from the Samapta Directorate in a number of areas impacted by the quake, namely Sigi Regency, Parigi Moutong Regency, and Palu City.

During these activities, Samapta Directorate personnel targeted several locations experiencing increased public activity following the earthquake.

At the petrol stations on Jalan Moh. Yamin and Jalan I Gusti Ngurah Rai, Samapta Directorate officers conducted traffic management to ease congestion caused by the build-up of vehicles queuing to refuel.

In addition, officers also inspected a number of buildings affected by the earthquake, including the Paskop Cafe located on Jalan Tanjung Manimbaya, Palu City.

“The Central Sulawesi Police, through the Samapta Directorate and regional units, continue to conduct patrols and monitoring at several locations affected by the earthquake. There is some material damage which is still being assessed by the relevant agencies,” he said.

He also urged the public not to panic and not to readily believe information that cannot be verified, especially that circulating via social media.

“We urge the public to remain calm, always be alert to the possibility of aftershocks, and follow the instructions from the government and officers in the field. Do not be easily influenced by unverified information as it can cause panic,” he stated.

He expressed hope that the situation in Central Sulawesi remains safe and conducive and that there are no further casualties due to aftershocks. According to him, the Central Sulawesi Police will continue to be present to provide service, protection, and a sense of security to the community.