Indonesia protests erupt after death of Affan Kurniawan in police vehicle crash

Protests grow in Indonesia after death of young driver in police vehicle crash

Protests have erupted across Indonesia after a 21-year-old ride-share driver, Affan Kurniawan, was killed by a police vehicle in Jakarta on August 28, 2025. The incident happened during clashes near the parliament building and has sparked nationwide anger.

Demonstrations spread to several cities, including Makassar, where protesters clashed with riot police. People are demanding justice for Kurniawan and raising broader concerns about police brutality, rising inflation, unemployment, and what they describe as government excesses.

At least 50 people were injured in the unrest, including medical workers who were attacked while helping the wounded.

President Prabowo Subianto expressed condolences to Kurniawan’s family and promised a full investigation. He also pledged government support for them.

Kurniawan’s funeral drew thousands of mourners and has become a symbol of working-class solidarity. Critics, however, accuse authorities of trying to limit media coverage of the protests and say the tragedy shows the urgent need for systemic reforms in Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy.