Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia’s traffic police chief, Inspector General Agus Suryo Nugroho, said around 400,000 people are expected to attend the country’s 80th Independence Day celebrations in Jakarta. He added that more than 9,000 military and police personnel have been deployed to safeguard the event.
“We estimate the celebration will be attended by over 400,000 people,” Agus said during the Merdeka Jaya security roll call at Gelora Bung Karno sports complex on Saturday (August 16).
The Independence Day Celebrations will feature a series of events, including a presidential address, a national memorial service, a flag parade, the Proclamation Day ceremony, the evening flag-lowering ceremony, and a fireworks display.
“Independence Day on August 17 is a historic moment to commemorate the 1945 proclamation,” Agus said, noting that it is also an opportunity to honor the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes while strengthening unity and nationalism.
He also cautioned about potential disruptions during the celebrations, such as heavy traffic, large crowds, and possible security risks.
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Indonesia’s National Police will deploy 9,065 joint personnel for Operation Merdeka Jaya 2025 to secure the country’s 80th Independence Day celebrations in Jakarta.
The three-day operation, running from August 16 to 18 and designated by the government as public holidays, will include comprehensive security measures such as situational traffic management and crowd control.
Agus urged officers to stay alert to potential disruptions, including traffic congestion, overcrowding, and security threats, as large-scale events ranging from a state address to public festivities are expected to draw massive crowds.
Beyond manpower deployment, security will also focus on routes used by VVIPs and foreign dignitaries. Tactical measures, including escorts, securing strategic sites, and monitoring mass movements, have been detailed in advance. Police have also conducted security simulations using a tactical floor game to ensure personnel are familiar with operational scenarios.
During the roll call, Agus symbolically pinned operation badges on representatives from various agencies. He stressed that safeguarding Independence Day “is not merely an annual routine, but a tribute to the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes.”
(Raidi/Agung)
