Police Response to Violence: A Call for Better Action

Recent discussions in the Indonesian legislature highlighted concerns regarding excessive police force in response to violent incidents. During a significant meeting led by Commission 3, police officials, including Kapolrestabes, engaged with concerns about violence and police action. Notably, the meeting addressed a tragic incident involving the death of a youth, prompting dialogue around police procedures and public safety. Participants stressed the need for officers to have a heightened awareness of potential violence situations and the risks inherent in their actions, emphasizing the adage about balancing safety with caution: one foot in the grave, one foot in prison. Discussions highlighted the importance of thorough assessment before officers engage with suspects – considering factors like personal safety and the potential risks involved. Furthermore, stakeholders pointed out communication failures that allowed speculation and misinformation to spread rapidly online, which worsened public perception of the police response. The chief of police emphasized the critical nature of supplying factual, timely information to the public to maintain trust and avoid chaos. The urgent need for clear spokespersons in police communication was also discussed as a way to mitigate misinformation. Ultimately, the meeting presented a call to action for officers to undergo continuous education and assessment of their responsibilities in the community, promoting a proactive rather than reactive approach to policing and public safety.