Nabiila Azzahra, Jakarta – Jakarta Metropolitan Police officers denied handing out Sosro-branded packaged tea allegedly tainted with soap to students staging protests at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout in Central Jakarta on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
Jakarta Metro Police Public Relations Head Sr. Comr. Budi stated that authorities are aware of the reports circulating on social media. "It is clear that the police never provided box tea," he told reporters at Bundaran HI on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
Budi urged the public not to be swayed by "framing" or "provocation." He said that police will investigate the incident and plan to question those who received the drink packages. "Including the individuals in question, we will likely clarify who received the boxed tea," Budi said.
Previously, a viral social media video showed two protesters holding Sosro tea packages filled with foam. "Be careful, there are individuals distributing boxed tea containing soap at the October 28, 2026, demonstration," the video caption read.
A person in the video noted that the tea gave off a soapy aroma. "When squeezed, it was foamy. I didn't try it myself, but several who did, all had foam. It all tasted like soap," they said.
The videographer then asked whether the packages came from students or third parties, to which both individuals replied that an unidentified person handed them the drinks. "It suddenly appeared there," they said.
Meanwhile, the ready-to-drink bottled tea company Sosro management announced it is taking the matter seriously. "Currently, we are conducting a comprehensive investigation to understand the situation and verify the relevant facts," the company posted on its official Instagram account, @tehbotolsosroid.
The company added that it will evaluate all incoming information objectively to determine appropriate next steps. "We will provide further information once the investigation process has provided sufficient clarity," management stated.
Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2122664/jakarta-police-deny-giving-soap-laced-tea-to-protester