TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Transportation Society (MTI) urged the government to assure the security in Trans Sumatra toll road that is functionally operable for 2019 Eid homecoming season or locally known mudik lebaran.

“People who usually pass non-toll road of the Sumatra east cross know which region is prone to criminal acts. Don’t let such a crime divert to the functional toll road,” said MTI management Djoko Setijowarno in a written statement on Sunday, May 19.

Djoko asserted the security assurance is necessary for homecomers passing the toll road, especially the route of Bakauheni-Terbanggi Besar-Pematang Panggang-Kayu Agung-Palembang.

He said that the government should encourage the public to note emergency call center displayed along the toll road and station at least two armed officers of National Police’s Mobile Brigade (Brimob), Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), and Indonesian Army (TNI AD) in each tollgate.

Read: 5 Functional Toll Roads Operable for Eid Homecoming Season

“[The police] can also assign snipers in several points considered to be susceptible to crime. The presence of law enforcers will bring a sense of safety for homecomers,” Djoko added.

During 2019 mudik lebaran (Eid Homecoming), Trans Sumatra toll road connecting North Sumatra, South Sumatra, and Lampung will be operable. “This toll road helps to reduce travel time. From Bakauheni to Bandar Lampung only needs 45 minutes, while using the non-toll road of the Sumatra east cross requires 2 to 2.5 hours,” he outlined.

Lampung Police reminded the public to be aware of five areas prone to criminal acts in Sumatra highway (Jalinsum) during Eid homecoming season. They are Tulang Bawang regency, Mesuji, East Lampung, North Lampung, and South Lampung.

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