Rumors of a follow-up large-scale demonstration in Jakarta confirmed as a hoax, police urge public calm
Jakarta – Following the recent chaotic demonstrations, the situation in Jakarta has calmed down. The public is urged to disregard social media hoaxes claiming that thousands of people from various regions will flock to the capital to incite larger demonstrations.
The Head of Public Information for the Indonesian National Police Public Relations Division, Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, asked the public to remain calm and not be provoked by issues circulating in digital spaces or WhatsApp chain messages.
According to him, misleading information is often used to encourage people to take to the streets and cause riots.
“I urge the public to respond to all information with clarity. The primary channels of reference are mass media, reporters, and journalists who convey factual information,” he said.
Trunoyudo emphasized the importance of the public verifying all information before believing or spreading it. He believes the media plays a strategic role in clarifying emerging issues.
“All information needs to be carefully filtered and its sources verified. Let’s make the mass media the primary channel for conveying accurate and credible information,” he stressed.
The Indonesian National Police (Polri) have named seven people as suspects in a case of provocation and incitement via social media that sparked unrest in several areas. This determination follows up on police reports received.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Anti-Defamation Society (Mafindo) has revealed that hoaxes related to the riots are increasingly circulating. These include videos of riots in Baghdad purportedly occurring in Jakarta, and false reports about looting at the House of Representatives (DPR) building and the Atrium Senen Mall.
“Looting is an act that must be avoided because it is classified as a criminal act of theft,” wrote Mafindo.
The chairman of Mafindo, also known as Zek, also reminded the public to be wary of the flood of information filled with misinformation, disinformation, and even hate speech.
“The public should not be easily provoked by unclear content, hoaxes, or hate speech,” he said.
He added that the community was urged to maintain unity.
“Let’s join hands again to shape Indonesia’s future, forging togetherness,” said Zek.**
