11 Oct 2021 | 05:39 AM UTC
Indonesia: Authorities increase security at Supreme Court in Jakarta Oct. 11
Officials tighten security at Supreme Court in Jakarta, Indonesia, Oct. 11 due to hearing against prominent cleric.
Event
Officials have increased security at the Supreme Court in Jakarta Oct. 11 due to a hearing against Muslim cleric Rizieq Shihab. Authorities earlier sentenced Shihab to four years jail due to charges related to violation of COVID-19 gathering restrictions, among others. Shihab is attending the hearing on-site. Shihab's supporters and members of the now-disbanded Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) may attempt to gather outside the court.
Authorities have deployed around 1,660 personnel as a precaution. Security personnel may try to break up disruptive crowds or protests that violate COVID-19 gathering protocols outside the court. Clashes between security forces and protesters are possible. Protesters may block or march along nearby roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions could occur.
Context
Rizieq Shihab was sentenced to four years jail and a fine for breaching health protocols during events at Megamendung District, Bogor Regency, West Java Province and in the Petamburan area of Jakarta in November 2020. Officials have also charged Shihab for allegedly spreading misinformation related to his COVID-19 test result and medical treatment at a hospital in Bogor, West Java Province. Previous trials against Rizieq has triggered sporadic protests outside the East Jakarta Court. Shihab was a leader of the banned FPI; authorities attributed the decision to disband FPI to the group's alleged illegal activities that they claimed have affected social order. There hence remains a risk that FPI’s militant members may resort to more lethal violence in response to perceived persecution by the authorities.
Advice
Avoid the Supreme Court and its surrounding areas Oct. 11 due to increased security measures and possible protests. Plan for possible localized transport and business disruptions. If clashes occur nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
