"Remember, no one is allowed to carry firearms (while on duty)," the provincial police chief, Inspector General Karyoto, told officers deployed in a joint team to secure the Workers' Day commemoration in Jakarta at a roll call at the National Monument here, Monday.
He also urged the joint team, comprising 1,624 officers from the police, military, and municipal police, to serve residents and workers participating in the demonstration properly.
"Our securing duty is to provide security and comfort for those who participate in (Workers' Day) activities and security for other residents affected (by the activities)," the Jakarta Police chief noted.
Meanwhile, Karyoto stressed that officers should not become reckless in using tear gas against workers, as he will authorize their use only when necessary.
"Any use of tear gas is subject to my authorization," he remarked, adding that the decision to deploy riot control equipment would be made following consultation with the local police's top brass.
The police chief noted that at least 50 thousand workers will join the Workers' Day demonstration in Central Jakarta on Monday.
"According to their notification, 50 thousand (workers will participate), yet we hope the number will be less than that. With the spirit of Eid al-Fitr, we hope the workers will live with the spirit to develop the nation," he remarked.
He also expressed hope that demonstrations and activities to commemorate International Workers' Day in Jakarta would take place in a smooth and orderly manner.
"We hope and pray that today's activities can take place in an orderly manner, and public security can be maintained," Karyoto remarked.
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Translator: Ilham Kausar, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Sri Haryati
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