PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Government is strengthening its efforts to prevent street crime by forming an anti-mugging team with the police, including the West Java Regional Police Mobile Brigade Unit.

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan emphasized this step during a press conference at Bandung City Hall on Tuesday (June 2, 2026). He stated that the formation of the anti-robbery team was a follow-up to the West Java Police Chief's directive to strengthen anticipatory measures before the situation escalates.

"It's not an emergency, but while it's not yet an emergency, it's better to prevent it now," said Farhan.

He revealed that indications of an increase in mugging cases were beginning to emerge from reports that appeared almost weekly. Therefore, prevention was a primary focus through increased patrols and the involvement of various security forces.

Joint patrols will be carried out through two programs: Jawara Sakti and Ujang Barong. The Jawara Sakti program is a collaboration between the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) and the community through a regional security concept that actively involves residents and the Community Protection Unit (Satlinmas).

Meanwhile, Ujang Barong is a police program that prioritizes synergy between regional and community elements in patrol activities to maintain environmental security.

Farhan emphasized that all elements involved must actively monitor the situation in the field and not just wait for incident reports.

"In principle, no one should wait. If you wait, it will be too late," he stressed.

Furthermore, the Prabu Team, which has been tasked with maintaining order, will also be strengthened to support operations in the field. Brimob (Mobile Brigade Corps), police, and Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) personnel will be stationed at various strategic locations, from tourist areas and residential areas to city borders.

Regarding enforcement, Farhan assured that authorities will continue to prioritize the protection of civil rights. However, firm, measured action will be taken if the perpetrator threatens public safety.

"If they're truly threatening, there will certainly be firm action. But if they can be incapacitated, we'll take them to the office," he said.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the West Java Regional Police Mobile Brigade Unit, Senior Commissioner Zuhdi Batubara, stated that a collaborative approach is key to maintaining regional security. He believes security will be more effective if implemented from the prevention stage through cross-agency synergy.

"We are not only carrying out our main duties, but also taking initial mitigation steps with local governments and related parties," he said.

Zuhdi assessed that Bandung City has a strategic position as the provincial capital and a tourist destination that requires a conducive security and public order situation.

He added that collaboration between local governments, the police, and the community is crucial for maintaining security stability amidst high levels of public activity.

"This collaboration is important to ensure public order and security are maintained and the image of Bandung City remains positive," he said.

(Bandung City Communications and Information Service /bhf)