Indonesian Army Confirms Military Involvement in Combating Street Robbers Following Police Request
JAKARTA – The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) has confirmed that military involvement in combating street robbers is based on a formal request from the police.
Army Public Affairs Chief Brigadier General Donny Pramono stated that TNI’s involvement is carried out through joint patrols and coordinated security measures under the assistance mechanism.
“According to legal provisions, including the mandate of Law No. 3 of 2025 or the revision of Law No. 34 of 2004 on TNI regarding Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP), and based on a formal police request,” Donny said in Gambir, Central Jakarta, on Friday (29 May 2026).
He emphasised that arrest, investigation, and inquiry powers remain within the police’s jurisdiction.
“While the Indonesian Army’s role is to assist in security and joint patrols within respective legal frameworks and authorities,” he added.
In this context, military involvement in handling street robberies represents TNI and police collaboration to maintain public security and order.
“The presence of TNI AD personnel alongside police in high-risk areas aims to strengthen preventive effects, restrict criminal activity and enhance public safety,” he said.
Previously reported, the deployment of TNI soldiers in patrols for robberies has sparked debate.
On one hand, the government believes TNI presence is necessary to bolster public safety.
On the other hand, some experts argue street crime management remains the police’s domain.
Defence Ministry’s Information Bureau Chief Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait stated law enforcement remains the police’s primary duty.
However, in the context of Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP), TNI can assist local governments and police when security situations require enhanced state presence on the ground.
According to Rico, TNI involvement in the Jakarta Military Command (Kodam Jaya) area is directed towards joint patrols, regional support, and strengthening preventive effects to ensure public safety.
He added that Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin’s directive to establish Territorial Battalions is also expected to help curb criminal potential and maintain regional stability.