“The security and sterilization efforts demonstrate our commitment to ensuring the congregation’s safety during Christmas,” the Commander of the Mobile Brigade Unit of the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, Senior Commissioner Henik Maryanto, said in a statement on Tuesday (December 23).
The areas being inspected include the altar, the indoor and outdoor congregation seats, the parking area, the garden, the Maria Cave, the right side aisle, the auditorium, and restrooms.
"The inspection was carried out thoroughly to ensure no threats from explosives or other dangerous objects," Maryanto continued.
He further stated that the sterilization was conducted professionally and strictly followed procedures for safeguarding vital objects.
Based on the results of the sterilization, no objects or items suspected of being bombs or other dangerous materials were found.
"The situation at the church is monitored as safe and under control, so worship activities can proceed smoothly," he assured.
Maryanto then conveyed his full support for the Police Lilin Operation during the Christmas and New Year holiday to create a conducive public order and security situation.
The Jakarta Cathedral Church has prepared a capacity of approximately 5,000 seats for the congregation in the series of Christmas 2025 celebrations, utilizing the entire church complex, including several additional rooms and tents. The church also implements a registration system to manage the number of attendees.
According to Jakarta Cathedral Church Head Pastor Father Hani Rudi Hartokodi, the registration system has been in place for several years to prevent overcrowding problem due to high public enthusiasm and the limited capacity of the main church hall.
Related news: Jakarta Cathedral prepares 5,000 seats for Christmas celebrations
Related news: Soekarno-Hatta airport ready for 2026 Christmas-New Year travel surge
Translator: Ilham Kausar, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: M Razi Rahman
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
