National Police Chief Outlines Five Security Clusters for 2026 Lebaran Travel Period
The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) has unveiled a comprehensive five-cluster security framework for Operation Ketupat 2026, the government’s annual initiative to manage the massive Lebaran homecoming and return travel period.
National Police Chief of Traffic Irjen Pol Agus Suryonugroho announced the security strategy during a ceremony to dispatch CNN Indonesia’s coverage team on Friday, 13 March. The government has predicted peak outbound travel on 18 March and peak return travel on 25 March.
The five security clusters are structured as follows: The first cluster encompasses toll roads and all traffic engineering measures during Operation Ketupat, including contraflow, one-way systems, and traffic diversions. The second cluster covers alternative routes and arterial roads throughout the nation as priority security areas. The third cluster includes ferry terminals, bus terminals, railway stations, and airports. The fourth cluster addresses places of worship, and the fifth covers tourist destinations.
Agus assured that the police and government are fully prepared to ensure safe operations during this year’s festive season, particularly as Lebaran coincides with Nyepi (Hindu New Year celebrations). “The state is committed to ensuring the Ramadan observance, Lebaran, Nyepi, and Operation Ketupat all proceed safely—safe from criminal activities and ensuring orderly traffic flow,” he stated.
He expressed appreciation for media collaboration in disseminating information about travel patterns and conditions. “Collaboration and coordination with the media are key components of our strategy,” Agus said.
According to the Infrastructure and Regional Development Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), the government estimates 143.9 million journeys during the 2026 Lebaran period based on Ministry of Transport surveys. Central Java and East Java are predicted to be the primary destinations, followed by West Java, Yogyakarta, and South Sulawesi.
AHY detailed that the first peak of outbound travel will occur around 14-15 March, with the second peak on 18-19 March. For return travel, the first peak is expected on 24-25 March, with the second peak on 28-29 March.
The government deployment also involved collaboration with various agencies and transportation stakeholders, including the Directorate General of Land Transportation, PT Pelni (Indonesia’s state-owned shipping company), Pelita Air, Jasa Marga toll road operator, and infrastructure communications officials.