Dani Aswara, Jakarta – The Institute for Criminal Justice Reform (ICJR) has strongly criticized the plan to deploy sharpshooters or snipers for securing the Eid homecoming flow, as announced by the Chiefs of Police from Cianjur, Purwakarta, and Karanganyar. According to ICJR, the measure is not only excessive but also risks leading to extrajudicial killings.
"Statements regarding the deployment of snipers in strategic locations during the homecoming period indicate an approach that is not proportionate in addressing security issues," said ICJR researcher Iqbal Muharam Nurfahmi in an official statement on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
ICJR emphasizes that all law enforcement measures must adhere to human rights principles. The organization argues that excessive use of force, including the deployment of snipers, contradicts efforts to ensure security while respecting people's rights.
The Chiefs of Police's statement is seen as potentially legitimizing shootings in situations that could result in extrajudicial killings.
"This constitutes a serious violation of the rights of suspects or individuals suspected of committing crimes, which are lawfully guaranteed by legislation," Nurfahmi stated.
The use of force by law enforcement is regulated under Police Regulation Number 1 of 2009 (Perkap 1/2009), which stipulates that firearms should only be used as a last resort with the objective of incapacitation rather than killing.
"In using firearms, the authorities must still pay attention to the provision that there are no other reasonable and sensible alternatives to stop the actions or behavior of the perpetrator, or to prevent the escape of the criminal or suspect who poses an immediate threat to the lives of police officers or the public," he added.
ICJR stresses that every individual accused of a crime has the right to a fair and impartial trial to present their defense. However, that right is denied if they are killed before facing legal proceedings.
The organization asserts that deploying sharpshooter teams as a security measure is not only an excessive response but also represents a repressive approach that could lead to human rights violations.
"Public security cannot be achieved through intimidation and violence but must be through respect for human rights," Nurfahmi reiterated.
ICJR urges the Chiefs of Police from Cianjur, Purwakarta, and Karanganyar to revoke the plan and adopt a security strategy that aligns with human rights principles.
Additionally, ICJR calls on the Police Chief to summon and take decisive action against the three Chiefs of Police for proposing a policy that risks legitimizing extrajudicial killings.