Police Confirm Viral Social Media Narrative on Fines for Bald Tyres is a Hoax

The Traffic Directorate of the Jakarta Metro Police has clarified viral information circulating on social media regarding the imposition of fines for motorists with bald tyres. The police have confirmed that the narrative is untrue, or a hoax. Jakarta Metro Police Traffic Director, Brigadier General Pol Komarudin, stressed that the news, which had sparked anxiety and heated discussion among netizens, lacked a strong factual basis. “Hoax,” Komarudin stated while providing confirmation to the media in Jakarta on Thursday (23/7/2026). Previously, a post from the Instagram account @folkshiif spread a narrative that motorcyclists with bald tyres could be subject to legal sanctions. The account cited Article 278 of Law Number 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation. The post claimed that vehicles failing to meet technical and roadworthiness requirements, including the use of bald tyres, could be punished with a maximum of one month’s imprisonment or a fine of up to Rp250,000. This post triggered various negative reactions from the public who objected to the narrative. Brigadier General Pol Komarudin urged the public not to be easily deceived by information spread by irresponsible parties. He emphasised the importance of verifying any information circulating in cyberspace through official police sources. Despite dismissing the fine narrative, Komarudin reminded the public that driving safety is the top priority. He believes that the public fundamentally understands the applicable rules and forms of traffic violations. “The public surely already knows what traffic violations are. Just obey and be orderly on the road, then God willing, you will be safe and smooth on the road,” he said. He added that the main focus of motorists should be increasing awareness and compliance to maintain their own safety and that of others, not merely avoiding legal sanctions.