Extortionist in Central Jakarta Arrested, Metro Police Affirm No Room for Thuggery
Metro Jaya Police will not tolerate acts of thuggery related to debt collectors or extortion against UMKM traders or other members of the public,” said the Head of Public Relations for Metro Jaya Police, Commissioner Budi Hermanto, to reporters at Metro Jaya Police Headquarters in Jakarta on Friday (10/4/2026).
Budi Hermanto further stated that his side, through the ranks of the Directorate of General Criminal Investigation of Metro Jaya Police and affiliated police resorts, will continue to take action against perpetrators of thuggery.
“We will ask the ranks of the Directorate of General Criminal Investigation and Criminal Investigation units to take action against individuals who commit criminal violations against small traders,” he explained.
The viral incident occurred on Thursday (9/4) around 23:40 WIB. In the circulating video, the perpetrator is seen smashing the bowls of a porridge seller trading on Jalan Taman Kebon Sirih, Kampung Bali, Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta.
It is narrated that the perpetrator demanded Rp100,000 from the trader. The trader could only resign himself as his bowls were smashed.
“Smash them. I’ll pay but on the 1st. Smash them, it’s fine, up to you,” said the trader.
Central Jakarta Metro Police Chief, Commissioner Reynold EP Hutagalung, said officers moved immediately after receiving a report from the public. From the investigation results and coordination with local officials, three perpetrators were secured.
“The three perpetrators have been secured by us. They are currently undergoing further examination,” said Reynold in his statement on Friday (10/4/2026).
Three people were arrested following the extortion. The three perpetrators are TDT (26), DA (36), and OP (36).
Demanding ‘Security Fee’ by Force
Tanah Abang Metro Police Sector Chief, AKBP Dhimas Prasetyo, said the perpetrators extorted the victim for Rp300,000 under the pretext of a security fee. The perpetrators also threatened to stab the victim if his demand was not met.
“The reporter was selling porridge at the scene when three perpetrators arrived demanding a security fee of Rp300,000 while threatening to stab if not given,” said Dhimas.
The perpetrators are also said to have carried out extortion against a coffee stall on Jalan Fachrudin, Central Jakarta. Police seized several pieces of evidence, including sharp weapons, from the perpetrators.