Why Was Hercules Dubbed the 'King of the Tanah Abang Thugs'? Here Are the Facts and Origins

Rozario Marshal, also known as Hercules, has returned to the public spotlight after receiving a new mandate as a member of the Honorary Board of the Indonesian Labour Union (SBNI). The inauguration took place during the SBNI’s Second Congress on Sunday, 12 July 2026, adding to the list of strategic positions he now holds. Beyond his new role, the public remains curious about Hercules’s past, which for decades has been associated with the nickname ‘King of the Tanah Abang Thugs’. In his speech following the inauguration, Hercules expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him. He viewed the mandate as both an honour and a significant responsibility. ‘I am grateful to be given the honour of serving on the Honorary Board of the Indonesian Labour Union,’ he said. He stated that the inauguration marks an initial step in strengthening the relationship between the GRIB Jaya organisation and SBNI, two elements that share a vision of nation-building. Hercules also called on all components of society to enhance synergy in maintaining security and order, while supporting various programmes aimed at preserving the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. Prior to this role, Hercules was also entrusted with the position of Commander of the West Java Islamic Boarding School in February 2025. His appointment at that time was witnessed by several religious figures and was expected to strengthen collaboration between religious scholars and community leaders. The origin of the nickname ‘King of the Tanah Abang Thugs’ cannot be separated from his past in the Tanah Abang area of Central Jakarta. The moniker emerged due to Hercules’s significant influence and power during the 1980s. Stories circulating around the Tanah Abang Market describe him as a highly respected figure who was considered almost invincible. Locals at the time nicknamed him ‘Hercules’ because they believed his physical strength resembled that of the hero from Greek mythology. The name has stuck ever since, replacing his birth name, Rozario Marshal.