Deputy Home Affairs Minister Responds to Dedi Mulyadi's Bounty for Capturing Robbers

Wakil Menteri Dalam Negeri Bima Arya has responded to West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi’s move to hold a contest offering rewards for capturing robbers alive. The bounty hunt is the latest innovation from Dedi to suppress crime rates.

Bima Arya stated that every step taken by a regional head must comply with legal corridors. “Ensure that the system works and coordinate between the regional government and law enforcement. That is the most fundamental thing,” he said at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday, 28 July 2026.

Bima said he respects Dedi Mulyadi’s policy. However, he noted that the government must continue to optimise law enforcement. The National Mandate Party politician said that patrols and the presence of officers in the field remain the most important steps for public safety.

If there are other innovations, Bima said, they must not weaken law enforcement. “Patrols are key. Patrols give the impression that the government and law enforcement are present on the ground. So, in my opinion, do not immediately jump to other innovations,” he said.

Dedi Mulyadi had previously prepared prizes with varying nominal values, ranging from Rp 5 million to Rp 50 million, for residents who successfully catch perpetrators of theft, pickpocketing, or robbery and hand them over to law enforcement officers.

The move is part of Dedi’s effort to invite the public to participate in maintaining security in public spaces. According to him, providing rewards can trigger citizen participation while directing the public not to take the law into their own hands against captured criminals.

He admitted to using his personal funds to encourage public involvement in fighting street crime. Dedi said the decision to use personal funds for the bounty prizes was based on an appreciation approach that is still considered effective in building public awareness.