“Based on my conversations with the detainees, they said they had been treated well, with their fundamental rights respected,” he stated after inspecting the police detention facility in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Mahendra stressed that the state is obliged to guarantee human rights protection for all citizens, including those facing legal consequences, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to fair legal proceedings.
“The government is also inclined to endorse restorative justice, especially for underage detainees involved in demonstrations last August,” he noted.
He explained that preliminary investigations showed none of the 68 detainees were suspected of treason or terrorism, with most likely to face charges for general offenses or violations of the Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law.
Deputy Coordinating Minister Otto Hasibuan, who accompanied him, underlined the importance of transparency in law enforcement and prosecution processes.
“We urge strict compliance with regulations in handling cases. Transparency is essential to provide the public with clear information on ongoing legal proceedings,” Hasibuan affirmed.
Greater Jakarta Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri also accompanied the inspection.
At a press conference on Monday (September 8), Mahendra said more than 5,000 people had been arrested nationwide following violent riots during the protests in late August 2025.
He underlined that about 4,800 of them have since been released, while the remainder will face fair and transparent legal proceedings with their rights guaranteed.
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Translator: Agatha O, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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