Indonesia Protests Turn Deadly Over Lawmaker Perks, 20 Reported Missing

Violent protests have erupted across Indonesia over lavish new perks for lawmakers. A leading human rights group now reports at least 20 people are missing. The unrest has left six people dead since it began last week.

The situation intensified after footage spread online showing police killing a young delivery driver. This has fueled public anger against security forces and government spending priorities.

Nationwide Unrest and Police Response Draws International Scrutiny

The Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence confirmed the missing persons. The group, known as KontraS, issued a formal statement on the matter. They verified 23 initial reports from the public.

After a search process, 20 individuals remain unaccounted for. Most disappearances occurred in the greater Jakarta area and the city of Bandung. According to Reuters, these areas saw the most intense clashes.

The United Nations has called for an investigation into the police response. Officials are concerned about the alleged use of disproportionate force. This marks the worst civil unrest since President Prabowo Subianto took office.

President Forced into Rapid Policy Reversal

The protests forced a stunning U-turn from the government. President Subianto has now scrapped the controversial perks for parliament members. The proposed benefits had become a symbol of government excess for many citizens.

The military was deployed across the capital city of Jakarta to restore order. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered again outside the parliament building on Monday. Clashes were also reported in several other major Indonesian cities.

The protests began as a focused outcry against political privileges. They quickly evolved into a broader movement against perceived injustice. The killing of the delivery driver became a central rallying point for demonstrators.

The ongoing Indonesia protests highlight a deep public frustration with economic disparity. The government faces mounting pressure to ensure a transparent investigation into the violence and disappearances. Accountability remains the central demand.

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What sparked the initial protests in Indonesia?

The protests began over public outrage against expensive new perks for lawmakers. Anger grew over government spending priorities during economic strain.

How many people have been killed in the protests?

At least six people have died since the demonstrations started. The deaths occurred during clashes between protesters and security forces.

Which rights group reported the missing persons?

The Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS) reported the figures. The group is a well-known Indonesian human rights organization.

How has the international community reacted?

The United Nations has called for an investigation into the police response. They are urging authorities to avoid using disproportionate force against civilians.

Has the government responded to the demands?

Yes. President Prabowo Subianto has reversed the decision on lawmaker perks. This move was a direct response to the widespread public demonstrations.