West Java Police Allow 'Proportional Self-Defense' for Begal Victims

The West Java Police have announced that the public can defend themselves in a measured manner when facing a begal perpetrator, while the police continue to strengthen patrols to prevent street crimes. Head of Public Relations of West Java Police Kombes Hendra Rochmawan said that the public could resist as a form of self-protection as long as it was done proportionally and not excessive. "Our first effort is the order of the Police Chief to take firm and measured action. This is not only for the police, but also for the community, provided that it is carried out firmly and measured," he said as reported by ANTAR, A Tuesday, July 21. Hendra said that throughout July 2026, the West Java Regional Police had uncovered 24 cases of begal and street crimes, including 19 cases that had previously gone viral on social media. According to him, information uploaded by the public through social media helps the police identify and trace various crimes that occur in a number of areas in West Java. In addition to taking action, the West Java Police also increased routine patrols, especially at night and early morning, by increasing the number of personnel in the field to prevent muggings and other street crimes. Hendra emphasized that the police would take firm action against any perpetrators of street crimes that disrupt security and disturb the community. Source: VOI English