Klender East Jakarta Riot: Police Seize Bows and Firecrackers

A joint task force from the Presisi Pioneer Patrol Team of East Jakarta Metropolitan Police and Brimob personnel swiftly dispersed a clash between rival groups along Jalan I Gusti Ngurah Rai in Klender, Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, on Monday (25/5). During the operation, officers seized various sharp weapons and hazardous items used by the perpetrators. East Jakarta Metropolitan Police Chief Kombes Alfian Nurrizal stated the dispersal occurred after police received a report of the clash around 7:10 AM WIB. Presisi Pioneer Patrol Teams C and D were immediately deployed to the scene to quell the escalating tensions. “We successfully secured several items suspected to be used in the riot. Among the seized evidence were three firecrackers, five bows, and one slingshot projectile,” said Alfian Nurrizal in Jakarta on Monday (25/5). The clash involving residents of Kebon Singkong (Klender) and Cipinang Jagal (Pulogadung) created a tense atmosphere in the area. Both groups attacked each other using sharp weapons, stones, and firecrackers. After calming the crowd, officers conducted an intensive search around the incident site. “The items seized were found during the on-site inspection and are suspected to have been prepared for the riot,” explained Alfian. According to Alfian, the homemade weapons found indicate that the riot posed a significant threat to public safety and road users. “Officers secured the items for further investigation,” he added. The morning clash severely disrupted traffic flow. The main route from Bekasi to Cipinang was completely blocked, causing a traffic jam stretching over 2 kilometres. Many car and motorcycle riders were forced to pull over to avoid being caught in the crossfire. Commuters heading to work voiced complaints, stating the rioters’ actions severely impacted the public. “It’s very disruptive—especially on a Monday when people are starting their day. To have such a long traffic jam this early because of a riot is terrible,” complained Alwan, 32, a motorcyclist at the scene. To prevent retaliatory attacks, police have been stationed at the Bonsi Integrated Post to monitor crowd movements. Alfian confirmed that routine patrols will be intensified to maintain public security and order in East Jakarta. The police also commended residents for their prompt reporting of the incident, which helped prevent casualties. “Thanks to the officers’ swift response, the riot was dispersed and the situation was safely contained,” Alfian concluded. In closing, the police chief urged parents to closely monitor their teenagers’ activities, stressing that preventive measures within families are crucial to keep children from engaging in street violence that could endanger their lives. (Ant/P-2)