PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, inaugurated the formation of the Anti-Thug Task Force at the sub-district level in the yard of the Astanaanyar Sub-district Office, Monday (14/4/2025).

In his direction, Farhan emphasized that thuggery is a common enemy that must be eradicated through cross-sectors.

"Thuggery is not about organizations, not about certain groups. Thuggery is intimidation, threats, coercion for personal gain. It can be done by anyone. So we must not hesitate to take action," Farhan stressed.

Farhan added that the formation of this Task Force was a form of response to the approval of the Governor of West Java who called thuggery one of the main enemies of development in the region.

"This task force is not here to discredit anyone, but to enforce order and protect citizens. This is not a repressive action, but an educational one, so that Bandung residents live more orderly, more humanely," he said.

He also touched on the issue of street vendors that often become the spotlight. Farhan did not prohibit his citizens from trading, but emphasized the importance of obeying the rules.

Farhan appreciates the steps of Astanaanyar District which has started the "Thursday and Friday Free of Street Vendors" program as part of controlling activities in public spaces. He hopes that the consistency of this program will be an example for other districts in Bandung.

Farhan also highlighted the cemetery and market areas which are prone to gangsterism.

PD Pasar will be involved in the task force because market locations are often the place where extortion and covert intimidation occur.

"I will check directly which other sub-districts are ready. Every week we launch the next task force. The goal is to make Bandung a safe, orderly, and enjoyable city," concluded Farhan.

The formation of the Anti-Thug Task Force involves elements of the TNI, Polri, ASN, and heads of regional UPTs such as cemeteries, terminals, and markets. This activity is the first step towards a more orderly and civilized Bandung. (Bandung City Communication and Information Service/Fau)