A sweeping nationwide operation by Indonesia’s National Police has led to the arrest of thousands of suspected gang members linked to rogue mass organizations, as authorities grapple with escalating street crime and extortion that business leaders warn are undermining the country’s economic stability. Launched on May 1, 2025, the crackdown targets a range of illicit activities, from illegal levies to vandalism, with over 3,300 cases resolved so far, according to police officials.
Scale of the Crackdown
The operation, one of the largest of its kind in recent years, has spanned multiple provinces, with significant arrests reported in East Java, North Sumatra, and Central Java. In East Java alone, authorities detained 1,475 suspects tied to 1,198 separate cases between May 1 and May 10. “These arrests demonstrate our commitment to eradicating all forms of street crime that disturb public peace” said Sr. Comr. Jules Abraham Abast, spokesperson for the East Java Police, during a press briefing on May 10. He emphasized that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to ensure safety across the province, with plans to collaborate with the military, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to bolster social resilience.
In North Sumatra, police arrested 855 individuals linked to 753 cases involving extortion, harassment, and mass assaults. “Of those detained, 730 have been released after undergoing rehabilitation” said Insp. Gen. Whisnu Hermawan, North Sumatra Police chief, on May 10, noting that the operation would continue until May 21. He underscored the importance of the crackdown in rebuilding public trust in law enforcement and ensuring long-term stability in the region. 
Central Java saw 276 arrests related to street brawls, illegal racing, extortion, and unauthorized parking operations. Additionally, authorities apprehended 59 street performers and individuals identified as “punk” youths. “We hope this operation strengthens trust among local investors and fosters a conducive environment for business growth” said Sr. Comr. Basya Radyanada, head of operations at Central Java Police, on May 10.
Economic Fallout from Extortion
Beyond the immediate threat to public safety, the activities of rogue mass organizations have inflicted severe economic damage, particularly in industrial zones. According to the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI), extortion by gangs and unregistered groups has cost businesses hundreds of trillions of rupiah—equivalent to billions in USD (based on exchange rates as of May 24, 2025, approximately 100 trillion rupiah translates to US$6.25 billion). Industrial hubs such as Bekasi and Karawang in West Java, Batam in the Riau Islands, and areas in East Java have become focal points for these illicit practices.
Extortion tactics often involve coercing companies into hiring local groups for services like construction, accommodation, and catering. Businesses that resist face intimidation, vandalism, or disruptions, including forced factory shutdowns and staged demonstrations. A notable incident occurred last month in Subang, West Java, where the construction of a plant by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD was halted by individuals from unidentified mass organizations. Similarly, in Central Kalimantan, the mass organization GRIB Jaya “sealed” a tire and rubber company, PT Bumi Asri Pasaman, over alleged unpaid supplier debts.
Such disruptions have raised alarms among industry leaders, who argue that the pervasive threat of extortion deters foreign investment and hampers Indonesia’s ambition to become a regional manufacturing powerhouse. The economic stakes are high, as industrial estates are critical to the nation’s GDP, employing millions and driving export growth. If unchecked, these criminal activities could undermine investor confidence at a time when Indonesia is seeking to capitalize on global supply chain shifts.
Escalating Violence and Public Order
The crackdown comes amid growing incidents of violence linked to rogue organizations. A striking example occurred on April 18 in Depok, West Java, when members of GRIB Jaya set fire to three operational vehicles belonging to local police during an attempted arrest of a suspect tied to vandalism. Earlier, on January 25, a brawl involving members of mass organizations erupted at the Bekasi Administration Plaza in southern Bekasi, West Java, highlighting the potential for such groups to destabilize public spaces.
National Police spokesperson Insp. Gen. Sandi Nugroho announced on May 9 that the operation specifically targets a wide array of criminal activities associated with these groups, including illegal levies, threats, vandalism of public facilities, assault, provocation, defamation, and the spread of misinformation or hate speech. Kidnappings linked to mass organizations have also been flagged as a concern. The breadth of these offenses underscores the complex challenge facing law enforcement, as many of these groups operate under the guise of community or cultural associations, blurring the line between legitimate advocacy and criminal enterprise.
Government and Military Response
Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Indonesian government has taken decisive steps to address the crisis. On May 13, an anti-extortion task force was launched under the oversight of Coordinating Politics and Security Minister Budi Gunawan. “This illicit practice has become a serious threat to the country’s stability” said Gunawan during the task force’s inauguration, stressing that security forms the foundation of national development and economic progress. He called for the eradication of any disruptions to public order, framing the issue as a national priority.
The government has also enlisted military support to bolster its efforts. Maj. Gen. Yusri Yunarto, commander of the National Military Police Headquarters (Puspom TNI), confirmed that military intelligence personnel would assist in tackling rogue organizations and street crime. This collaboration signals a multi-pronged approach, combining law enforcement, military resources, and community engagement to restore order.
Broader Implications for Indonesia
The crackdown raises critical questions about the role of mass organizations in Indonesian society. While many such groups historically emerged as grassroots movements advocating for labor rights or regional interests, some have veered into criminal territory, exploiting their influence for financial gain. This duality complicates efforts to address the problem without alienating communities that rely on these organizations for representation.
Analysts suggest that the government must balance its hardline stance with preventive measures, such as addressing socioeconomic disparities that fuel gang recruitment. High unemployment rates and limited access to education in certain regions create fertile ground for criminal networks to thrive. Without tackling these root causes, crackdowns risk being seen as temporary fixes rather than sustainable solutions.
Moreover, the involvement of the military in civilian law enforcement operations has sparked debate among civil society groups. While the immediate goal of curbing crime is widely supported, there are concerns about potential overreach and the erosion of democratic norms. Past instances of military involvement in domestic security have drawn criticism for human rights violations, and observers caution that clear oversight mechanisms must be in place to prevent abuses.
Public Sentiment and Future Outlook
Public reaction to the operation has been mixed. In urban centers like Jakarta and Surabaya, many residents welcome the arrests, citing frequent encounters with extortion or street violence. Small business owners, in particular, express relief at the prospect of operating without the constant threat of coercion. However, in rural areas and marginalized communities, there is skepticism about whether the crackdown will address systemic issues or simply target low-level operatives while powerful figures remain untouched.
As the operation unfolds, its success will likely hinge on the government’s ability to sustain momentum and demonstrate tangible improvements in public safety and economic conditions. For now, the arrests mark a significant step toward reclaiming order, but the deeper challenge of reforming the social and institutional frameworks that enable such crime remains unresolved. With the operation set to continue in the coming weeks, all eyes are on whether Indonesia can turn this moment of enforcement into a lasting foundation for stability.
