No raids during Ramadan, Indonesian government reiterates

JAKARTA: The government has called on regional police chiefs to prevent raids during Ramadan to ensure a peaceful atmosphere throughout the holy month, Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said.

“I urge all police chiefs to (make sure) there will not be any more sweeping. Let this Ramadan be enjoyed in peace by all communities,” he said at the State Palace complex.

The appeal came on the heels of a raid of food stalls operating in Serang, Banten, on Friday by local Public Order Agency personnel.

One case caught the public’s attention after a woman named Saini was seen in tears as food at her modest stall was taken away to prevent it being sold and eaten in the area during fasting time.

The government asked the public to participate in maintaining tolerance among all citizens.

“That is the hallmark of our beloved country,” he added. — The Jakarta Post / Asia News Network