The abuse of TNI uniforms

The abuse of TNI uniforms

From Rakyat Merdeka

Newspapers reported on Nov. 22, 1999, that in Bandengan,
Kendal, Central Java, a man in an Indonesian Military (TNI)
uniform ran amok Rambo-style shooting two pistols and throwing
grenades at a group of citizens.

I appeal to the military police and the National Police to
immediately track and detain the culprit so the people will know
whether the culprit is really a TNI member or a civilian wearing
a TNI uniform with the intention of destroying TNI's reputation.

This kind of incident increases the hate of people who are
anti-TNI, and it should be considered that such acts are always
committed by people seeking to discredit TNI by using a TNI
uniform.

I herewith propose to the TNI leadership to safeguard TNI's
image by banning the sale of TNI uniforms. TNI members wishing to
buy uniforms must show their ID. Non-TNI members (civil servants
connected to TNI) who are instructed to buy TNI uniforms should
show a letter from the unit commander.

Moreover, there is a need to reconsider implementing the steps
taken in the 1960s when raids were held to net civilians wearing
TNI uniforms.

ISMET SUKARDI

Jakarta