TNI Steps In to Combat Begal, TB Hasanuddin Says Police's Duty

PDIP faction member of the House of Representatives’ Commission I, Retired Major General TB Hasanuddin, has commented on the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) assisting in combating begal. He stated that this is actually the core duties and responsibilities of the police.

He stated that if the TNI steps in to tackle begal, it would be at the police’s request.

‘In my view, combating begal is the police’s responsibility. If the TNI steps in, it must be at the police’s request,’ TB Hasanuddin told journalists on Thursday, 28 May 2026.

He explained that coordination and requests for TNI involvement in combating begal remain under Polri’s authority. However, he noted that this is the first time in history the TNI has intervened in begal suppression.

‘This may be the first instance. Indeed, there must be a Polri request and coordination,’ he added.

Previously, TNI Public Affairs Chief Brigadier General Muhammad Nas stated that TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto had given the green light for troops to address begal incidents.

‘There is no specific instruction from the TNI commander for a begal eradication operation, but approval for TNI personnel to act is based on the principle that their presence on the ground is part of supporting Polri,’ Nas said.

According to Nas, the TNI will not be directly involved in arrests, legal enforcement, or suspect questioning. He added that the TNI’s role is solely to assist Polri in ensuring public protection from begal incidents.

Therefore, to prevent overlapping duties between the TNI and Polri on the ground, Nas assured enhanced coordination with Polri to maximise begal response efforts.

‘The TNI and Polri always coordinate and collaborate in line with their respective roles and authorities, ensuring operations proceed within the legal framework,’ he said.

Begal incidents have recently become more frequent in several regions, including Jakarta.

In Jakarta, such incidents frequently occur in various areas, including West Jakarta.