Police Arrest Five in Gang Fight, Seize Nine Machetes

Jakarta (ANTARA) - A joint patrol team from the Jakarta Metropolitan Police arrested five people suspected of taking part in a gang fight and seized nine machetes in Pondok Bambu, Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, early on Sunday, after receiving a public report.

“Officers received the report at 2.10am, prompting the rapid response,” said Jakarta Metropolitan Police Mobile Brigade Unit Commander Henik Maryanto in Jakarta on Sunday.

He said personnel from the B Pioneer Battalion of the Jakarta Metropolitan Police Mobile Brigade, together with the East Jakarta Metropolitan Police’s Perintis Team, went straight to the area to search it.

“Co-operation between the police and the public is very important in preventing public-order disturbances. We will respond quickly to every report as part of our prevention efforts,” Henik said.

The five suspects were arrested at the scene and taken, along with the seized items, to the East Jakarta Metropolitan Police headquarters for further questioning by its Resmob unit.

Separately, Jakarta Metropolitan Police public relations chief Budi Hermanto stressed the importance of parents actively monitoring their children, particularly during high-risk hours at night and in the early morning, to prevent them becoming involved in crime or gang fights.

“Do not let them carry bladed weapons or get involved in gang fights. If you learn of plans for a fight, report them to the police immediately so they can be prevented at an early stage,” Budi said.

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police urged residents to use the Polri 110 emergency hotline if they witness or become aware of a potential threat to public order and safety in their area.