Indonesia: Activists plan to demonstrate outside the Central Java Police headquarters in Semarang Dec. 21

Event

The Muslim group Alumni Brotherhood (PA) 212 plans to demonstrate outside the Central Java Police headquarters in Semarang Dec. 21. The action is to demand the authorities release the FPI leader and prominent cleric Rizieq Shihab, who remains under police detention for allegedly violating coronavirus disease (COVID-19) health protocols during a Nov. 14 event in Jakarta. The action site is near other government buildings, such as the Central Java Provincial Council and Central Java governor's office. Organizers claim more than a thousand people will participate in the gathering.

Authorities will almost certainly increase security, including erecting roadblocks and security cordons, at Central Java Police headquarters and its surrounding area. Localized traffic and business disruptions are likely during the action, especially if activists occupy nearby roads, such as Jalan Pahlawan and Jalan Veteran. Clashes are possible if authorities forcibly disperse the demonstrators. Mass arrests may occur if security forces consider any protester to breach COVID-19 restrictions.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible clashes. Plan for localized traffic and business disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.