TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono asked the National Police to crack down all groups that have violated the law with violence, destruction, and vigilantism, especially the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI). His statement was made as a response to the many debate in social media over the recent clash between FPI members and residents of Sukorejo, Kendal.
"The position of the state is very clear--my position is very clear; do not tolerate those who commit vandalism, violence, vigilante and breaking the rules enforced in this country," said Yudhoyono at the Jakarta International Expo Kemayoran, Sunday, July 21.
The President said the police use a very persuasive approach in controlling and handling the dynamics of the community. However, if the law is broken, the police are required to act firmly.
Regarding the clash in Kendal, the president asked the public to remain calm and restrain themselves. The people are asked to comply with the law and let the security forces handle the case.
"The law must be upheld to prevent conflicts or clashes, and any element, FPI included, must be prevented from committing violence and destruction," the president said.
The clash happened when a group of FPI members from Temanggung, Magelang and Yogyakarta were convoying to raid Kendal's entertainment venues. One of the cars hit a motorbike, causing the death of one man.
This incident angered residents who then pursued the FPI party until they were cornered in the Sukorejo Grand Mosque. The FPI members were rescued and evacuated by the police and military personnel who came to secure the incident.
FRANSISCO ROSARIANS
