West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi Thanks Human Rights Minister for Criticising Begal Bounty

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BANDUNG – West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has addressed criticism from Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai regarding a bounty programme offering rewards of Rp 5 million to Rp 50 million for the capture of begal, or violent street robbers. He asserted that the bounty was implemented to protect both victims and perpetrators.

“The situation is becoming safer now, citizens are starting to be brave, and the security forces are currently very responsive. I would like to express my gratitude to the Human Rights Minister for his self-criticism, reminding me not to violate the human rights of criminals through vigilante justice,” he said, as quoted on Wednesday (29/7/2027).

Following the minister’s criticism, the Governor, known as KDM, recalled previously being criticised over military barracks that were accused of human rights violations. He expressed thanks to the Human Rights Minister for once again reminding him to prevent any human rights violations.

Beyond this, Dedi explained the rationale behind the bounty programme, stating that crime victims themselves are victims of human rights violations. He noted that victims are stripped of their sense of security and state protection.

“They lose their property and even their lives. The most tragic part is that when crime victims are hospitalised, the national health insurance (BPJS) cannot cover their hospital bills,” said the former Purwakarta Regent.

However, KDM assured that crime victims can still receive hospital treatment as the costs are guaranteed by the West Java Provincial Government. He said he understands this issue well, having frequently handled cases where crime victims were not covered for their medical expenses.