Jakarta, Indonesia — Mass protests have erupted across Indonesia after the fatal incident involving 21-year-old Affan Kurniawan, an online motorcycle taxi driver, who was struck by a police tactical vehicle during demonstrations in Jakarta on August 28. What began as rallies against economic hardship and a controversial housing allowance for lawmakers has now transformed into a nationwide movement demanding justice and accountability.
From Economic Discontent to Nationwide Unrest
However, public outrage dramatically intensified after Kurniawan’s death. Eyewitnesses reported that he was participating in the Jakarta protests when the police tactical vehicle struck the crowd, resulting in his fatal injury. Graphic images and videos of the event quickly spread across social media platforms, galvanizing public anger and demands for transparency.
Violence Spreads Across Multiple Cities
Since the incident, protests have erupted not only in Jakarta but also in cities like Bandung, Surabaya, and Makassar. Several demonstrations escalated into violent clashes between protesters and police forces.
In Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi, protesters set fire to a government building, resulting in the deaths of three individuals trapped inside. Additionally, vehicles and motorcycles were torched in several regions, with makeshift barricades blocking streets. Authorities reported numerous arrests related to property damage and confrontations, while human rights organizations have raised alarms over what they describe as excessive police force.
Government Response and Investigation
President Prabowo Subianto addressed the nation, expressing condolences to Kurniawan 's family and promising a transparent investigation into the incident.
“The loss of life is unacceptable. I have instructed the National Police to ensure full accountability, and I promise the process will be conducted openly and fairly,” said Prabowo.
The National Police Chief issued a rare public apology to both Kurniawan 's family and the Indonesian public. Seven officers present in the tactical vehicle at the time of the incident have been detained for questioning. Despite these measures, many protesters remain distrustful, citing a history of impunity surrounding law enforcement abuses. Civil society groups have called for independent oversight of the investigation to ensure credibility.
Public Distrust and Calls for Reform
The tragedy has become a potent symbol of broader issues relating to governance, social inequality, and police conduct. Protesters have carried signs reading “Justice for Affan” and “Stop Police Violence,” with hashtags such as #JusticeForAffan and #ReformasiDikorupsi trending widely on social media.
Experts warn that without genuine reforms, public unrest could escalate further, deepening divisions between citizens and the government.
Human Rights Organizations Demand Accountability
Local and international human rights groups have condemned the killing, urging the Indonesian government to take concrete steps to prevent future abuses. Amnesty International Indonesia highlighted the risks posed by unchecked police power during demonstrations and called for a review of crowd-control tactics, emphasizing the need to protect peaceful protesters.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Stability
Protest leaders have vowed to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met, which include:
- Justice for Affan Kurniawan
- An independent investigation into police actions
- Reevaluation of lawmakers’ housing allowances
- Stronger protections for the right to peaceful assembly
Observers stress that the government’s pledge of accountability will only be meaningful if it is transparent and leads to criminal prosecution where appropriate. For now, Affan Kurniawan 's death has become a rallying point across Indonesia, transforming a protest over economic policy into a broader call for justice and systemic reform.
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