24 arrested in Indonesia as anti-government protest turns violent
Protesters hurled rocks and set fires in Surabaya over fuel price hikes and free meals scheme
Indonesian police have arrested 24 protesters following a violent anti-government rally in Surabaya, the country's second-largest city. The demonstration on Friday saw around 100 people gather near a government building to protest a fuel price increase and President Prabowo Subianto's flagship free meals scheme. According to journalists at the scene, some demonstrators hurled rocks at police and set fire to rubbish in the middle of the road. Surabaya police chief Luthfie Sulistiawan confirmed officers took 'firm actions' after projectiles were thrown, resulting in 'dozens' of arrests.
Rights group KontraS Surabaya coordinator Fatkul Khoir reported that 24 protesters were arrested and questioned until 3:30 AM on Saturday but were not charged. The incident highlights growing public discontent with Prabowo's economic policies, which include fuel price increases and a costly free meals program. The arrests come amid broader concerns over civil liberties in Indonesia, with rights groups warning of a crackdown on dissent under the new administration.
- 24 protesters were arrested in Surabaya after a violent anti-government protest on Friday
- Around 100 demonstrators objected to a fuel price increase and President Prabowo's free meals scheme
- Detainees were questioned overnight but released without charges, per rights group KontraS
Why It Matters
Shows rising public anger over economic policies and potential for wider repression under Prabowo