By: Arka Dwi Francesco*)
Amidst the post-demonstration situation that had become heated in several cities, the government acted swiftly through synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri). Coordinated joint patrols in various regions demonstrated the state’s presence in ensuring public safety. This step aligns with the public’s hope for maintained social stability and demonstrates the government’s firmness in enforcing the law with a humane approach.
The Commander of the III/Siliwangi Military Command, Major General Kosasih, stated that the Regional Government, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and other officials must not operate independently but must work together and respect each other. This demonstrates that joint TNI-Polri patrols are being conducted to ensure public safety. The TNI and Polri must continue to work hand in hand, not only in maintaining security but also in supporting development and ensuring public safety, as a manifestation of their shared commitment to the nation and state.
This statement reflects a firm yet reassuring stance amidst the evolving social dynamics. By asserting that conditions in West Java are safe and under control, the government has successfully provided a sense of reassurance to the public, preventing them from being influenced by provocative issues that could potentially disrupt stability. The emphasized synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) is not only relevant for maintaining order but also serves as a crucial foundation for supporting sustainable national development.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo, stated that large-scale patrols were being conducted to ensure public safety following the unrest in several areas. He emphasized that the National Police, along with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), are present to protect citizens, maintain public order, and safeguard vital facilities from threats from anarchist groups. This statement aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring national stability is maintained for the benefit of all citizens.
Dedi also explained that all law enforcement actions will be carried out professionally and will prioritize legal procedures and human rights principles. Firm action by authorities is a crucial step to prevent the spread of unrest, but must be carried out while respecting the dignity of the community. The public must not be easily provoked by misleading issues, especially those circulating on social media, and must actively cooperate with authorities through official reporting channels in their respective communities.
In Surabaya, the Commander of the V/Brawijaya Military Command, Major General Rudy Saladin, led the launch of a large-scale joint patrol involving the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and other security forces. The patrols traveled along several main city routes and were conducted continuously. Rudy stated that the presence of officers on the streets was not only to demonstrate firmness but also to engage with the public and encourage them to maintain order.
He emphasized that Surabaya and East Java are a shared community that must be protected from destructive acts such as looting and arson. Rudy also stated that authorities are ready to take firm action against individuals who violate the law, as instructed by the President, but in a manner that complies with the rules. Joint patrols are a crucial step to prevent a recurrence of incidents that could harm the wider community. He hopes that the public will not simply be spectators but will play an active role in maintaining the security of their respective neighborhoods.
From these various statements, it is clear that the synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) is not merely technical cooperation, but a concrete manifestation of the state’s presence in ensuring the security of its citizens. The approach taken is firm yet humane, demonstrating a balance between legal certainty and respect for civil rights. The presence of officers on the streets is not intended to instill fear, but rather to provide tangible protection.
This synergy is also crucial for mitigating social unrest that can arise at any time. Amidst political and social dynamics, the public needs assurance that the state is capable of ensuring stability. Joint patrols are an effective instrument for providing this assurance, as they are not only repressive but also preventative. This demonstrates the government’s serious concern for public security and its ability to respond quickly to any potential threats with measured action.
Joint TNI-Polri patrols demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining security and order throughout the country. However, the success of maintaining stability depends not only on the authorities but also on public participation. Therefore, it is appropriate for every citizen to participate in safeguarding their respective neighborhoods, rejecting calls that lead to unrest, and resisting provocation.
Maintaining national security and stability is a shared responsibility. The government’s swift action in deploying the TNI-Polri synergy is clear evidence that the state is present to protect its people in every situation. The government, through the TNI and Polri, has demonstrated strong synergy, and the public needs to provide support by maintaining order and prioritizing unity. In this way, the Indonesian nation can navigate these difficult times while upholding peace and brotherhood.
)* The author is a public policy observer
