He called claims to the contrary circulating on social media a "false and misleading narrative."
"I must firmly state that no TNI members were arrested by the police or became provocateurs in the incident. That is a false and misleading narrative," Ardianzah said in a statement.
He expressed regret over the "negative framing" directed at the TNI and said the military is following up on the matter.
Ardianzah urged the public to remain calm and not be provoked by false news that could create division between the public and security forces.
He reaffirmed the TNI's commitment to "work hard and professionally to maintain national stability by ensuring a safe, peaceful, and conducive situation across all regions of Indonesia."
His statement came after a photo circulated on social media showed a man, alleged to be a TNI member, being apprehended by police, while appearing to show a firearm permit card.
The National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, had previously confirmed that the TNI and the Police would take prompt action to restore security, emphasizing that "the burning of buildings, public facilities, and attacks on headquarters are clearly not peaceful actions."
The recent protests across Indonesia were primarily fueled by public outrage over a proposed monthly housing allowance of Rp50 million (about US$3,000) for members of parliament, which many considered excessive amid rising living costs and a weak economy.
The situation was exacerbated by several legislators' comments that were perceived as insensitive and out of touch, such as comparing themselves to manual laborers, calling protesters "dumb," and justifying the allowance by citing their own long commutes.
The demonstrations escalated and became more violent after a video went viral showing a police tactical vehicle running over and killing a motorcycle taxi driver during a protest in Jakarta.
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Translator: Fath, Kenzu
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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