Jakarta – Home Affairs Minister Tjahjo Kumolo has called for an investigation into the hoisting of a desecrated Indonesian flag in front of the National Police headquarters in Jakarta by Muslim hardliners during a rally earlier this week.
"We ask the police to investigate [it thoroughly]," Tjahjo said in Sumedang, West Java, on Wednesday (18/01).
The minister said he had also sent a circular to all regional heads, instructing them to improve communications with religious, traditional and mass groups to maintain diversity.
"Police chief [Gen. Tito Karnavian] said one of our biggest domestic threats is the threat against diversity," Tjahjo added.
Police announced on Wednesday that they would investigate the incident, which involved the hoisting of an Indonesian flag, stamped with Arabic writing and the two crossed swords.
Investigators will also summon the coordinators of the rally, which was staged by the hardline Islamic Defenders Front (FPI).
"We are currently investigating who hoisted [the flag]," Tito said. He added that the person responsible for this could face a minimum of one year in prison, if convicted.
Short video footage of the flag being carried during the rally on Monday has gone viral on social media. The rally was organized by the FPI to demand the dismissal of Jakarta Police chief Insp. Gen. M. Iriawan and West Java Police chief Insp. Gen. Anton Charliyan.