Mon Sep 01 01:33:14 UTC 2025: ## Indonesia on Edge: Security Tightened as Protests Spread, Sparked by Economic Grievances

**Jakarta, Indonesia** – Indonesian authorities have significantly increased security measures across Jakarta and other major cities following days of violent protests that have claimed the lives of at least six people. The unrest, initially triggered by anger over financial benefits for lawmakers, escalated after a video surfaced showing a police vehicle running over a delivery driver, 21-year-old Affan Kurniawan.

Police have established checkpoints throughout Jakarta and are actively patrolling the city, stating their intention is to “protect” citizens and provide reassurance, according to a spokesperson speaking with Kompas TV. Armored vehicles and motorcycles were deployed near the parliament building late Sunday in a show of force aimed at deterring further demonstrations.

The protests have spread from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, Bandung, Semarang, Surabaya in Java, and Medan in North Sumatra, marking the worst unrest since President Prabowo Subianto took office. Further gatherings are planned across the archipelago on Monday.

The crisis has forced President Subianto to cancel a planned trip to China for a World War II commemoration. Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has warned of “firm action” against “rioters and looters,” following reports of looting, including the pillaging of the Minister of Finance’s residence.

Reports indicate that at least three people were killed in Makassar after a fire started by protesters at a council building. Another victim in Makassar was beaten to death by a mob who suspected him of being an intelligence officer. Amikom Yogyakarta University has confirmed the death of one of its students, Rheza Sendy Pratama, during the protests, although the details surrounding his death remain unclear.

Adding to the climate of uncertainty, TikTok has temporarily suspended its live feature in Indonesia, citing the need to monitor and address the situation. The platform boasts over 100 million users in the country.

The government’s response and the evolving situation are being closely watched both domestically and internationally.

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