DPRD DKI Criticises Satpol PP Over Ice Cream Vendor Enforcement at CFD

August Hamonangan, a member of the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DKI) from the PSI faction, has criticised the Civil Police (Satpol PP) for their handling of ice cream vendors at the Bundaran HI Car Free Day (CFD) area in Central Jakarta, which went viral on social media. August deemed the officers’ actions excessive, although enforcement at the CFD area remains necessary. “Satpol PP was right to issue an apology for the excessive actions, but the apology and promises to be more humane are not enough,” August stated on Tuesday (26/5/2026). He noted that similar incidents have occurred repeatedly, damaging the government’s image in the public eye. “Similar incidents have happened multiple times. Therefore, I believe Satpol PP needs a comprehensive review of its enforcement methods, which have consistently been inhumane,” he said. He reminded that Satpol PP officers must still respect citizens during enforcement operations. “Even though enforcement is necessary, officers must remember they are dealing with people who deserve respect,” August said. He noted that Bundaran HI is in a red zone per the 2022 Transport Department Head Decree No. e-0077, prohibiting vendors from operating there. However, he argued that Satpol PP should direct vendors to other permitted areas instead. “While red zones are indeed prohibited for vending, there are also yellow and green zones where vendors are allowed to operate,” he said. “I am puzzled why Satpol PP officers cannot simply guide vendors to these areas without resorting to violent actions, as seen in the viral social media video yesterday,” August added. August lamented the incident, which he believes has further alienated the public from Jakarta Provincial Government officials. “If this continues, the public will grow increasingly hostile towards on-ground officers and feel even more distant from the Jakarta Provincial Government,” he said.