A tragic incident marked the protest in front of the Indonesian Parliament (DPR/MPR) building on August 28, 2025. A Gojek driver named Afan Kurniawan, who joined the demonstration, lost his life after being run over by a Brimob tactical vehicle (Barakuda). This incident sparked public outrage and drew strong condemnation toward the police unit involved.
The Chronology of the Incident
Eyewitnesses reported that the victim slipped while crossing amid the clash between protesters and security forces. At the same time, a Brimob tactical vehicle sped forward without stopping. The vehicle crushed the victim, causing immediate death at the scene. Many consider this action a severe breach of safety procedures and a violation of basic human rights.
Waves of Public Outrage
The tragedy triggered anger among thousands of online motorcycle taxi drivers who were present during the protest. They condemned Brimob’s reckless act that ignored civilian safety. The Chairman of the National Ojol Coalition, Andi Kristiyanto, emphasized that the police must take full responsibility for the loss of life. Protesters demanded a transparent investigation and firm sanctions for those proven negligent.
Official Apologies
The National Police Chief issued a formal apology and assured that the Police Internal Affairs (Propam) will conduct an investigation. Meanwhile, Gojek expressed deep condolences and pledged to support the victim’s family. However, the apology was deemed insufficient by many, as the incident is seen as a stain on Indonesia’s democracy and humanity.
Demands for Justice
This tragedy highlights the urgent need for reforms in crowd-control procedures. Security forces must prioritize the safety of citizens above all else instead of resorting to excessive measures. Public demands include:
- A transparent and independent investigation.
- Firm punishment for those responsible.
- Adequate compensation for the victim’s family.
- A revision of Brimob’s SOP to ensure humane crowd management.
A Blow to Democracy
The case of Brimob runs over Gojek driver serves as a dark reminder in Indonesia’s democratic journey. Demonstrations should be a platform for citizens to voice their concerns, not a battlefield that claims lives. Strong condemnation continues to echo across society, reaffirming that the lives of ordinary people must never be disregarded.
Credit image from https://www.instagram.com/p/DN6sEWHkglu/?hl=en
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