Security needs public support

JAKARTA (JP): National Police Chief Lt. Gen. Dibyo Widodo has urged people to intensify their own security systems in their surroundings to help fight crime.

"It's impossible for the police to be at all places at all times," the three-star general told 20,000 personnel of the civilian security members yesterday.

Dibyo said that with a limited number of personnel and equipment, the police have tried their best to safeguard residents and maintain public order wherever possible.

However, "there are still many housing complexes, offices and schools which have yet to be secured adequately by the police", he said.

Despite the lack of police personnel, "we have observed and learned of the great potential within communities, both in terms of number and spirit, to fight crimes", Dibyo said at the annual gathering of security personnel in the eastern parking lot of Senayan sports complex.

Moreover, he said, everyone should increase alertness in face of next year's general election.

"Active participation of the public with all their potential is highly needed to maintain peace and order, to make the general election a great success," said the former Jakarta police chief.

Today Indonesia has about 150,000 police personnel assigned to protect the total population of approximately 185 million.

The gathering yesterday was attended by neighborhood security groups comprising civilians, retired Armed Forces members, Satpam (security guards), Hansip (village guards), members of youth organizations and university students trained in security and military defense.

In a number of remote area outside the city, such as in Bekasi and Tangerang, local communities find it difficult to set up their own security systems. Poor roads, lighting and lack of telephone lines are among difficulties encountered.

Numerous robberies, rapes and holdups in front of helpless villagers are reported every month in Bekasi and Tangerang. (bsr)