Djakarta Warehouse Project Concert: 18 Indonesian Police Detained for Extorting Money from Malaysians
Extortion Allegations
Several Malaysians who attended the Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) concert in Kemayoran, North Jakarta, have come forward with allegations of being forced to undergo urine tests, asked to show their passports, and pressured to pay money. Despite their drug test results returning negative, the concertgoers claimed to have been extorted by Indonesian police personnel.
Investigation and Detentions
In response to the allegations, the Indonesian police have detained 18 of their personnel suspected of extortion. The 18 police officers are from the Metro Jaya police, central Jakarta police, and the Kemayoran police station. According to Public Information Bureau head Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, the officers have been detained by the Professional and Security Division (Propam) for further investigation.
Organisers’ Response
The DWP organisers, Ismaya Live, expressed regret over the challenges faced by the concert fans. While acknowledging that some issues were beyond their control, they understood the impact they had on fans. The organisers assured that they are working with the relevant authorities and government bodies to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
Government Response
The incident has drawn attention from House of Representatives Commission III chief Habiburokhman, who expressed confidence that Propam would address the alleged extortions fairly. "If extortion did occur, those involved should be punished," he said. The National Police Commission has also called for decisive action against the officers involved, urging ethical hearings and criminal penalties if any crime is confirmed.
Conclusion
The detention of 18 Indonesian police personnel suspected of extortion is a positive step towards addressing the allegations of mistreatment and extortion during the Djakarta Warehouse Project concert. It is essential that the investigation is thorough and that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their nationality, are treated with respect and dignity during public events.
FAQs
Q: How many Indonesian police personnel were detained in connection with the alleged extortion?
A: 18 police officers were detained from the Metro Jaya police, central Jakarta police, and the Kemayoran police station.
Q: What were the allegations made by the Malaysian concertgoers?
A: The concertgoers claimed that they were forced to undergo urine tests, asked to show their passports, and pressured to pay money, despite their drug test results returning negative.
Q: What is the response of the DWP organisers to the allegations?
A: The DWP organisers expressed regret over the challenges faced by the concert fans and assured that they are working with the relevant authorities and government bodies to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
Q: What is the stance of the government on the incident?
A: The government has called for decisive action against the officers involved, urging ethical hearings and criminal penalties if any crime is confirmed.