Protest at Sungguminasa Prison in Gowa causes damage, eight provocateurs arrested

Spokesperson of the Directorate General of Corrections (Ditjenpas) under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham), Rika Aprianti, explained the protest that resulted in prison damage occurred on Monday at 3:00 PM WITA. Initially, Sungguminasa Prison was stormed by 40 demonstrators representing the Alliance of Law Observers (AMPH).

“The demonstration was conducted by AMPH without prior permission or official notification from the police, either Gowa Regency Police (Polres Gowa) or Bontomarannu Police Station (Polsek Bontomarannu),” said Rika in her statement on Monday (25 May 2026).

Rika stated that the demonstrators engaged in destructive acts, including deliberately ramming motorcycles into the P2U entry area, throwing stones at windows, damaging visitor facilities for inmates, and other prison infrastructure. The protesters also set fire to tyres.

“They also carried sharp weapons such as badik daggers and bows. The actions caused fear and unease among the local community,” she added.

In response, Rika said the prison chief immediately coordinated with and reported the incident to Bontomarannu Police Station and Koramil 1409-03 military unit for security assistance.

“Eight provocateurs involved in the incident were arrested and taken to the police station. Searches and examinations revealed two tested positive for narcotics,” she said.

She confirmed that Sungguminasa Prison continues to coordinate with Bontomarannu Police Station and remains open for discussions.

“All complaints and services will be addressed in accordance with standard operating procedures,” she added.