Tuesday, 12 May 2026
BANDA ACEH | INDATANEWS.COM – Police in Aceh have launched an investigation into damage at the Governor's Office following a large-scale protest that escalated into vandalism against state property.
Aceh Police Chief Inspector General Drs. Marzuki Ali Basyah personally inspected the affected areas on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in Banda Aceh. He was accompanied by senior regional police officials to assess the situation and secure initial evidence from the scene.
Freedom of Expression and Legal Boundaries
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Marzuki emphasized that while freedom of expression is guaranteed by law, it must remain within legal limits.
"Protests are not prohibited. However, the destruction of state property is a violation of the law. We are requesting an investigation into who financed these actions," he said.
He further stressed a firm stance against unrest, "Public demonstrations are protected by law. But when they turn into chaos and vandalism, we will take firm action within the legal framework."
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CCTV Review and Investigation of Provocateurs
The inspection was carried out alongside Aceh Police Intelligence Director Kombes Pol Said Anna Fauza, Banda Aceh Police Chief Kombes Pol Andi Kirana, and a joint investigation team.
Authorities are currently analyzing CCTV footage to identify those involved and reconstruct the sequence of events. The removal of the Indonesian national flag was highlighted as a key trigger in the escalation.
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"This was the starting point of provocation. Damage to fences and other facilities is also under investigation," Marzuki added.
Investigations are ongoing to uncover all potential violations of the law.
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Government Support for Law Enforcement
Aceh Regional Secretary M. Nasir praised the swift response of the police and expressed appreciation for their handling of the situation.
"We thank the police for their quick action in controlling the situation," he said.
Regarding legal proceedings, he emphasized that the government fully trusts law enforcement authorities.
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"This is the responsibility of the police. We trust their work and support all measures to maintain security and order," Nasir stated.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining public services despite the damage and strengthening inter-agency coordination.
"On behalf of the Aceh government, we thank the Police Chief for his attention and swift response in securing the Governor's Office," he concluded. (INDC)
REPORTER: Adli Safwan
EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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