Viral Bajaj Driver in Central Jakarta Allegedly Extorted by Thug, Police Hunt Perpetrators

A video depicting a man allegedly extorting a bajaj driver in the Tanah Abang area of Central Jakarta has gone viral on social media. Police are investigating the case.

From the circulating video, a man approaches the driver inside the bajaj. The bajaj driver is seen handing money to the man.

“Didn’t you already give it earlier?” said the video recorder, who was also a passenger in the bajaj, as observed on Sunday (12/4/2026).

“We already did earlier,” the bajaj driver replied.

“Is it like that in Tanah Abang, brother? Giving or being extorted?” the passenger asked.

“Yes, being extorted,” the bajaj driver stated.

The incident reportedly occurred on Friday (10/4). The bajaj driver, who was waiting for passengers, became a target of extortion in the form of daily contributions. One driver claimed to have to pay Rp100,000 every day.

The drivers are said to often receive threats if they refuse to give money, ranging from being shouted at as thieves to facing violent actions.

Tanah Abang Police Chief AKBP Dhimas Prasetyo stated that his team is currently investigating the case. Police are coordinating with the sub-district office, Satpol PP, and the Transportation Department to conduct patrols in areas prone to illegal levies (pungli).

“Currently, officers are still conducting investigations to identify the perpetrators suspected of extortion. And coordinating with relevant parties such as the sub-district and Satpol PP as well as the Transportation Department to carry out joint patrols in areas prone to pungli,” said AKBP Dhimas when contacted by reporters on Sunday (12/4).