Crime-free capital?

Crime-free capital?

After their move against gambling and antidrug campaign targeting nightclubbers -- the results of which are yet to be seen -- the Jakarta Police are cracking down on street crime.

City Police chief Insp. Gen. Firman Gani said last Thursday, one day before the raids began, that the operation would not only focus on public nuisances but on brutal ruffians working for mass organizations.

The operation kicked off the following day, when more than 240 people, believed to be involved in street and other crimes, were apprehended.

Sharp weapons, guns, stolen vehicles, gambling paraphernalia, various kinds of drugs and pirated compact discs were confiscated during the raids.

Jakartans have high expectations of the police move, envisioning public peace; the freedom to go anywhere without being intimidated or threatened by criminals.

Police efforts to prevent and detect crime naturally deserve support. However, the police need to be well-prepared with clear- cut and accountable measures before taking action as the people expect to see the results of their work.

Firman's bold promise to deal firmly with the network of criminals responsible for the frequent violent raids on nightspots has drawn mixed reactions -- including cynicism -- from the people. Many are hopeful that the police chief will keep his word; others doubt that the police have the guts to discipline such organizations.

In certain cases, the police act only after other parties have taken it upon themselves to exercise control over the situation. The most recent case was the dispute in late May between the developer of Taman Permata Buana housing complex in West Jakarta and individuals claiming to own some of the land. The dispute escalated into a deadly brawl due to the involvement of a local patrol group, while the police stood by. The police have faced waves of criticism for failing to take prompt action before the clash, in which a life was lost.

The police's failure to intervene when nightspots are vandalized -- including the forced closure of a pool hall during the last fasting month by a certain group -- is another example of the law enforcers' ignorance or weakness. None of the gang members involved in that incident were detained.

Given the public awareness of the lack of justice in such cases, residents' skepticism is understandable. It is apparent that the authorities have done very little to address concerns over the activities of these hostile groups.

It has even been alleged that the authorities, including the police and military, are backing these militant groups and other criminals by allowing them to vandalize private property. And now, consequently, such groups have the power to extort residents who cannot defend themselves.

The existence of militant groups is in fact a reflection of people's despair over the country's weak law enforcement.

If Firman is serious in his resolve to crack down on thuggery he must build a police force of professionals.

Given that the campaign is unlikely to last for more than a month, residents could be forgiven for asking if the end of the month will mark the beginning of a new wave of crime.

To back the police, it is imperative that Jakartans take it upon themselves to reject brutality and intimidation. In return, the police must make good on their promise by quickly responding to reports of crime.

To regain the people's trust, the police must prove they are capable of making the capital a safe and comfortable place to live. After all, that is their job.

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