"Of course, (we) are continuing to carry out activities from a soft approach to a hard (approach), which we are currently changing to preventive and securing measures, or what is commonly called as a preventive strike," National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo informed.
He made the statement after attending an event held to commemorate the National Counter-Terrorism Agency's (BNPT's) 13th anniversary here on Friday.
According to him, the strategy was previously implemented during several international events held in Indonesia, such as the G20 and ASEAN summits.
"Thank God, that at those big events, in accordance with the direction of the President, there was not even the slightest explosion," he added.
Therefore, the strategy will be continued during the general elections. This is because Polri understands that the political year has the potential to be used by groups affiliated with terrorism.
"Especially when there are differences of opinion or conflicts, especially issues of ethnicity, religion, race, or societal groups (SARA) are used. Of course, we are anticipating this," he added.
He further explained that Polri is continuously providing mentoring to former terrorists.
"(We are) cooperating with the BNPT and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and religious leaders to continue religious moderation measures so we can prevent (the spread of) those beliefs," he said.
Furthermore, for actions that could disrupt or endanger the implementation of the general elections, the perpetrators will be arrested.
"And of course, all of our officers, supported by the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) Commander, remain alert; especially in areas that become bases of those groups," he said.
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Translator: Fath Putra, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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