Indonesian police report 178 street‑crime cases and affirm self‑defence rights

The East Java Regional Police (Polda Jawa Timur) announced that 178 street‑crime cases were uncovered in July 2026, covering violent theft, aggravated theft and motor‑vehicle theft. A total of 206 suspects were detained. Police highlighted the role of the Criminal Investigation Directorate and a newly formed Rapid Reaction Unit in curbing the offences, and pledged to publish monthly updates on the so‑called “3C” cases.

In Jakarta, the Metro Jaya Regional Police (Polda Metro Jaya) reiterated that citizens who act in self‑defence against vehicle‑theft perpetrators are protected by the Indonesian Criminal Code. Director of Criminal Investigation Kombes Pol. Iman Imanuddin stressed that investigations will be objective and proportional, and clarified that all arrested suspects were civilians, despite some wearing police‑style clothing. The force will continue anti‑crime operations through its Enhanced Routine Activity program and warned offenders against using knives or firearms.