Police Seize Sharp Weapons from Individuals During Jakarta Demonstration

Police found a kitchen knife and a machete during a demonstration in Tosari, Central Jakarta. They are now investigating the discovery of the two sharp weapons.

“During the action, the Gakkum Task Force made a discovery: a knife blade carried by an individual with the initials AM. This is still being investigated. The other item was a machete carried by an ambulance driver,” said Polda Metro Jaya Head of Public Relations Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto to reporters after the action at the location on Tuesday (18/8/2026).

Budi then displayed the two sharp weapons. He said both were found when the Gakkum Task Force became suspicious of several people during the demonstration.

“We urge everyone to act wisely during demonstrations. We have also requested and expressed our thanks that the notification of the action was received by the Central Jakarta Metro Police. These objects must not be present in areas where opinions are expressed in public,” he explained.

Police consider kitchen knives and machetes dangerous when brought to a demonstration site. They therefore asked the public not to bring such objects when holding protests.

“We all understand and acknowledge that if these were used, they would pose a danger to security personnel, demonstrators, and members of the public nearby. At present, those individuals are still being investigated regarding their intentions in bringing these items. This is still under investigation,” he added.

Budi urged all members of the public and demonstration participants not to carry sharp weapons. This is to ensure that demonstrations proceed in an orderly manner.

“Let us together create an atmosphere where the expression of opinions is orderly, safe, and comfortable,” he said.