Strengthened security measures implemented in Indonesia following violent demonstrations leading to fatalities

Unrest Spreads Across Indonesia Amidst Economic Hardship Protests

Protests against economic hardship have spread across several major cities in Indonesia, including Yogyakarta, Bandung, Semarang, Surabaya in Java, Medan in North Sumatra province, and others. The unrest, which started peacefully, has turned violent in some areas, causing significant disruptions and prompting authorities to take action.

The violence began in Jakarta following six deaths during protests, with the most notable incident being the running over of delivery driver Affan Kurniawan by a paramilitary police unit. Another victim lost their life in Makassar on Friday after being beaten by a mob, suspected to be an intelligence officer. At least three people were killed in a fire started by protesters at a council building in Makassar, and the death of Rheza Sendy Pratama, a student at Amikom Yogyakarta University, has also been confirmed in Yogyakarta protests, with the circumstances unclear.

In response to the escalating violence, Indonesian authorities have increased security in Jakarta and set up checkpoints and patrols to protect citizens and provide a sense of security. Police have also deployed a convoy of armoured cars and motorbikes to parliament as a show of force to deter protesters.

The defence minister, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, has threatened "firm action" against "rioters and looters," while President Prabowo Subianto has cancelled a planned trip to China for a military parade due to the ongoing crisis. The president has also reversed his stance on financial measures for lawmakers following the protests.

The unrest in Indonesia has caused significant disruptions, including the cancellation of international engagements, and has affected more than 100 million TikTok users in the country. In response, TikTok has temporarily suspended its live feature for a few days due to anticipated further unrest.

More protests are planned in several locations around Indonesia's archipelago, with the paramilitary police unit responsible for running over the 21-year-old deliveryman Affan Kurniawan, according to the AFP report, being the Mobile Brigade Corps (Brimob). The finance minister's house has also been pillaged during the protests, and the violence in Makassar has resulted in multiple deaths and beatings of suspected individuals.

As the unrest continues, authorities will need to find a solution to address the underlying economic issues that have led to the protests while ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.