Indonesia Deploys Massive Security Force for holiday season
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Indonesia is preparing for a massive security operation ahead of teh Christmas and New Year’s holidays.Authorities are deploying a combined force of over 141,000 personnel to ensure the safety and security of citizens and tourists alike. This important deployment underscores the nation’s commitment to maintaining order and preventing any potential disruptions during this peak travel season.
The operation, known as “Operation lilin” (Candle), will run for 13 days, from December 21st to January 2nd, 2025. National Police Chief General Listyo Prabowo announced the deployment, stating, “The Indonesian National Police will carry out Operation Lilin (Candle) for 13 days from December 21 to January 2, 2025, by involving 141,605 joint personnel from the police, national armed forces, and other stakeholders.” The force will include 80,856 soldiers from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI).
This substantial security presence will be strategically positioned across the country. General Prabowo revealed that the personnel will be stationed at 2,794 posts, encompassing security checkpoints, service points, and integrated posts. These posts will monitor a total of 61,452 locations, including churches, shopping malls, transportation hubs (bus terminals, train stations, airports, and ports), tourist attractions, and New Year’s Eve festivity venues.
The scope of Operation Lilin extends beyond simply maintaining a visible presence. General Prabowo emphasized the multifaceted nature of the operation, explaining, “The christmas and New Year security operation will entail a variety of activities, from managing homecoming traffic flows to securing venues of Christmas services and New Year celebrations.” This highlights the comprehensive approach taken to address potential challenges, from traffic congestion to ensuring the safety of large gatherings.
The Indonesian authorities are also proactively preparing for potential emergencies. Special joint forces are on standby to respond to any disasters that may arise during the holiday period. In Bali, a popular tourist destination, approximately 2,200 personnel will be deployed. General Prabowo noted, “Bali has been known as one of the magnets (drawing) domestic and international tourists in search of a tourism destination during the year-end holidays,” underscoring the island’s meaning as a key focus for security efforts.
The scale of this security operation mirrors similar efforts undertaken in the United States during major holidays and events, demonstrating a global commitment to ensuring public safety during peak travel seasons. The deployment of such a large force reflects Indonesia’s dedication to providing a secure environment for both its citizens and the many international visitors expected during the christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
Indonesia Mobilizes Massive Security Force for Holiday season
With the Christmas and New Year holidays approaching, Indonesia is taking no chances when it comes to public safety. A joint security operation involving over 141,000 personnel has been launched across the country, reflecting the nation’s commitment to maintaining order and preventing potential disruptions during this busy travel season.
Unprecedented Scale of Operation Lilin
ıştırThis deployment, known as Operation Lilin, is truly remarkable in scale. Welcome to the program, Dr. Ratna Sari, a renowned expert on Indonesian security affairs. Can you elaborate on the scope and importance of this operation?
Dr. Ratna Sari: Thank you for having me. Operation Lilin is indeed unprecedented in its size. It involves not just the Indonesian National Police, but also the armed forces and other security stakeholders. This year, over 141,000 personnel will be deployed nationwide, with a substantial portion stationed in strategic locations like churches, shopping malls, transportation hubs, and tourist attractions.
Protecting key Locations and Addressing Diverse Threats
ıştır The article mentions that Operation Lilin will focus on a variety of security threats. Could you shed some light on the range of challenges this operation aims to address?
Dr. Ratna Sari: Absolutely. The holiday season brings about a unique set of security concerns. It’s not just about visible criminal activity. Operation Lilin is designed to address potential traffic congestion,especially during the homecoming rush (mudik),ensure the safety of large gatherings at religious services and New Year celebrations,and be prepared for any potential disasters or emergencies that might arise.
Bali Takes Center Stage
ıştır The article highlights Bali as a key area of focus. Why is Bali receiving special attention in this operation?
Dr. Ratna Sari: Bali is a major tourist destination, attracting both domestic and international visitors during the holidays. The influx of tourists, coupled with celebratory events, requires heightened security measures to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being. The deployment of approximately 2,200 personnel in bali demonstrates the government’s commitment to safeguarding this vital tourism hub.
A Global Trend in Ensuring Festive Safety
ıştır This seems to reflect a global trend of heightened security during peak travel seasons and major holidays.Would you agree?
Dr. Ratna Sari: ** I’d say so. Countries around the world are increasingly recognizing the need for comprehensive security measures during these times.We see similar large-scale security deployments in places like the United States during Thanksgiving and the New Year.
