Residents Say Extortion in Penjaringan Often Targets Logistics Vehicles and Cargo Trucks

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Residents and road users in the Penjaringan area, North Jakarta, say they often witness extortion taking place around the intersection of Jalan Jembatan Tiga Raya.

Fauzan (36), an online motorcycle taxi driver in the area, revealed that the perpetrators target vehicles carrying goods, such as logistics vans, pick-up trucks, and cargo trucks.

“There are quite a few here. Usually, when vehicles are heading from here towards Angke, at this intersection, they ask for money. They usually target vehicles carrying goods,” said Fauzan when interviewed by Kompas.com at the location on Friday (15/5/2026).

Although he has never been a direct victim, Fauzan claims to often witness drivers of delivery and cargo trucks passing through from the Jakarta North port area being extorted.

“It seems they are specifically targeting vehicles carrying goods, pick-up trucks and trucks, perhaps because it is easier, especially since the windows are often open,” he said.

Similarly, Arif (28), a trader in the area, confirmed the presence of people who often ask for money at the intersection.

“Usually, sometimes in the afternoon, they act as unofficial traffic wardens while directing traffic, and sometimes they ask for money,” said Arif.

However, Arif said he did not directly witness the incident of extortion that led to the theft of an electronic money card at the location, which went viral on Thursday (14/5/2026).

He said that the perpetrators usually come in groups of three to four people.

“Not every day, in fact, it’s quite rare, but I’m not here every day either. It seems they move around,” said Arif.

In response to the increasing number of street thug activities, Fauzan, as one of the road users, hopes that law enforcement will take firm action against the perpetrators.

“We are all trying to make a living, but if it disrupts others, it should be dealt with,” he said.