Jakarta police under fire for criminalising student paramedics

JAKARTA – The University of Indonesia (UI) and several civil society organisations have condemned the police’s alleged use of excessive force and criminalisation of student protesters during a May Day rally in Jakarta in May, describing the actions as an abuse of power that threatens citizens’ democratic rights.

The criticism was sparked by the controversial naming of UI student Cho Yong Gi as a suspect, despite his role as a medical volunteer at the demonstration. The philosophy student, who was wearing medical attire and carrying first-aid equipment, was reportedly subjected to physical violence before being arrested.