West Java Police: Citizens May Defend Themselves Against Street Robbers

The West Java Regional Police stated that the public is allowed to take measured self-defence actions when facing street robbers, while the police continue to strengthen patrols to prevent street crime. Head of Public Relations for the West Java Regional Police, Senior Commissioner Hendra Rochmawan, said in Bandung on Tuesday that citizens may fight back as a form of self-protection as long as it is done proportionally and not excessively. “Our first effort is the Chief of Police’s order for firm, measured action. This applies not only to the police but also to the public, provided it is carried out firmly and measuredly,” he said. Hendra said that throughout July 2026, the West Java Regional Police uncovered 24 cases of street robbery and street crime, including 19 cases that had previously gone viral on social media. According to him, information uploaded by the public via social media assists the police in identifying and tracking various criminal acts occurring in several areas of West Java. In addition to enforcement, the West Java Regional Police are also increasing routine patrols, especially at night until the early hours, by adding more personnel in the field to prevent street robberies and other street crimes. Hendra stressed that the police will take firm action against any street crime perpetrators who disturb security and cause public unrest.