Police investigate two Instagram accounts used to mobilise students for riots

Bekasi City Police have uncovered two Instagram accounts suspected of being used to mobilise students during protests that ended in riots in the region.

The Head of Criminal Investigation at Bekasi City Police, Commissioner Verdika Bagus Prasetya, explained that the two social media accounts are managed by three individuals, all of whom are still students.

“One account is managed by two students, while the other is managed by one student. We are currently cross-referencing the details of all three with digital data to clarify their respective roles,” Verdika stated in a briefing in Jakarta on Tuesday.

He added that witness examinations are being directed towards tracing the connection between conversations in social media groups and actual actions on the ground. The investigation aims to delve into the potential involvement of other parties who may have directed, facilitated, or even funded the movement.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Bekasi City Police, Commissioner Putu Kholis Aryana, warned alumni and social media account administrators against using seniority and school pride to provoke students into violent actions.

“Do not use school solidarity or loyalty to alumni as pressure to force students to follow invitations that endanger their safety. Peaceful expression of aspirations is respected, but destruction and violence cannot be justified,” said Putu Kholis.

He emphasised that account administrators must realise the real-world impact of the messages they post on social media and should direct their influence towards supporting the continuity of students’ education, rather than dragging them into legal trouble.