Mugging on pedestrian bridges

Mugging on pedestrian bridges

From Media Indonesia

I would like to ask both the police and "Tibum" (local government public order officials) to seriously address the security of pedestrian bridges on Jl. Jenderal Sudirman and those in the Senayan area, in particular, the bridge in front of Pintu Satu Senayan and Ratu Plaza, where pickpocketing and mugging is rife.

Criminal actions usually take place at times when it is uncrowded, such as between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., befalling lone crossers carrying cellphones.

One of the pickpockets (usually a team of two), while walking ahead or side-by-side with the victim, drops a handkerchief and bumps into the victim. The victim is surprised and caught unaware so the other partner immediately snatches their cellphone, wallet or any other valuable.

Lately they have become even bolder and used knives for mugging (usually they operate in groups of four people), as experienced by two of my colleagues.

I would like to ask "Tibum" personnel that rather than chasing away peddlers and vendors (which may lead to clashes), it would be better if you would look after the security of these bridges.

I would like to ask the police chief to coordinate his personnel as per your promise 'to serve and to protect' the public. As the location is only about 500 meters from your headquarters, it should reflect the quality of service and security provided by your department.

M. HUDAYA

Jakarta