26 Jan 2023 | 04:56 AM UTC
Indonesia: Muslim groups could hold protests nationwide as of Jan. 26 to denounce burning of holy book
Muslim groups could hold protests across Indonesia as of Jan. 26 to denounce burning of holy book. Tight security likely at any gathering.
Event
Activists from Muslim groups could stage protests across Indonesia as of Jan. 26 to denounce the burning of the Quran by a far-right activist from Denmark, who received authorization from Swedish police to protest outside Turkey's Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden. Islamist organizations such as the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) and Alumni Brotherhood (PA) 212 have condemned the incident. Related demonstrations in Jakarta could occur at the Embassy of Sweden, State Palace, and Arjuna Wijaya Horse Statue. Gatherings may also take place at mosques or near government buildings, monuments, and prominent intersections in other cities nationwide, such as Bandung, Makassar, Medan, Palembang, Serang, and Surabaya. Dozens to hundreds of people could take part in any action.
Authorities will almost certainly increase security, including erecting roadblocks and security cordons, at any protest sites. Localized road closures and business disruptions are likely during any gathering. Clashes between activists and security forces are possible. Mass arrests may occur if security forces consider any demonstration to be disruptive or if any rally lacks a public gathering permit.
Advice
Avoid any protest due to possible clashes. Plan for possible road closures and business disruptions near any demonstrations and seek alternative routes to circumvent affected areas. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories,
