Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesian authorities are investigating allegations of extortion involving police officers against Malaysian concertgoers at the Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) held at JIExpo Kemayoran, Central Jakarta. The claims, which went viral on social media, have sparked widespread concerns and prompted an internal probe by Jakarta’s police department.
According to Oke Zone, posts circulating on X (formerly Twitter) describe numerous complaints from Malaysian attendees who claim they were subjected to urine drug tests while dancing at the event. Some alleged they were forced to show their passports and were extorted for money by police officers on duty.
Responding to the allegations, Jakarta Police spokesperson Kombes Pol Ade Syam Indradi said the Professional and Security Division (Propam) of Jakarta Police, with oversight from the national police, has launched an investigation.
“Since yesterday, the Jakarta Police’s Propam division, supported by the National Police’s Propam unit, has been thoroughly investigating the matter,” Ade Syam said on Friday.
Ade emphasized the police’s commitment to combatting drug abuse, stating that no one would be exempt from the law if found guilty.
“Jakarta Police remain fully committed to eradicating and addressing all forms of illegal drug distribution and abuse,” he said. “We will take firm action against anyone found responsible, in accordance with existing laws, in a professional and proportional manner.”
The Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP), in an official statement, expressed regret over the reported incidents, acknowledging the frustrations faced by attendees. While noting that some aspects of the situation were beyond their direct control, DWP affirmed their commitment to ensuring attendee safety.
“Your safety, well-being, and overall experience are – and will always be – our top priorities,” the statement read.
DWP added that they are actively cooperating with authorities to investigate the claims and are working to implement concrete measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“We look forward to welcoming you back next year to our beloved country, Indonesia, and creating even more unforgettable moments together,” DWP said.
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Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP)
The 2024 Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) took place from December 13-15 at JIExpo Kemayoran in Central Jakarta, attracting thousands of electronic dance music (EDM) fans from Indonesia and abroad. The long-running festival, which began in 2008, featured performances by world-renowned artists, including Steve Aoki, Timmy Trumpet, Armin Van Buuren, and Zedd.
Approximately 400 Malaysian attendees reportedly claimed they were forced to pay bribes, with the total amount allegedly reaching RM9 million equivalent to Rp32 billion (around $2.1 million). Some concertgoers reported being extorted despite testing negative for drugs.
The controversy has raised concerns about the treatment of international visitors and the conduct of law enforcement at large-scale events. DWP has assured that the allegations are being thoroughly investigated.
DWP organizers urged attendees who experienced any misconduct or losses during the three-day event to file formal complaints with the police.
(Raidi/Agung)
