Hoodlum problem

Hoodlum problem

From Sinar Pagi

In the context of the government's effort to deal with hoodlums or preman, which has drawn attention and opinions from various parties, the Foundation of the Indonesian Legal Aid Institution (YLBHI) also would like to give its opinion.

YLBHI extends its support on every effort made, either by the society or the government, to eradicate hoodlums who have caused disturbances.

The term preman depicts a sociological phenomenon. For juridical purposes, this term must be clearly defined so as to avoid arbitrary action.

Combating hoodlumism in Indonesia must be done comprehensively, taking into account the social, economic, political and cultural context. Repressive, partial and incidental measures will never lead to a thorough solution to the core of the problem.

In real life, many parties use the service of preman for their own interest. This hinders the effort of fighting the problem.

Action against hoodlumism must be taken immediately, because this problem is beginning to be an organized force, which, if left to grow stronger, will be very difficult to address. We must learn from the experiences of other countries in dealing with similar organized crimes like the United States, Japan and Italy.

Those who have been arrested as preman must be treated or remain suspects and still have the right of protection by the law.

BAMBANG WIDJOJANTO

Operational Director

YLBHI, Jakarta