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A tragic incident occurred in Pejompongan, Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, on Thursday night, August 28, 2025. An online motorcycle taxi (ojol) driver named Affan Kurniawan was killed after being struck and run over by a Brimob tactical vehicle during a protest. The armored vehicle, known as a barakuda, fled toward the Kampung Melayu–Tanah Abang non-toll overpass (JLNT) and was chased by protesters before finally being stopped. The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and renewed scrutiny over civilian safety during demonstrations.

In an official statement, Grab Indonesia expressed its deep condolences and concern. “Our main focus at the moment is to provide full support, including compensation for drivers and their families affected by this incident,” the company said.

Grab stressed that every partner is an essential part of the Grab family. Beyond compensation, the company pledged continued assistance to ensure the victim’s family receives the support and peace they need. Another driver, Moh Umar Amarudin, was seriously injured and remains under intensive medical care.

Eyewitnesses reported that the protest, involving students and labor groups, escalated into clashes with security forces near Pejompongan. In the chaos, a Brimob armored vehicle plowed into the crowd and fatally struck Affan Kurniawan.

After the fatal crash, the vehicle fled toward the Kampung Melayu–Tanah Abang overpass. Amateur videos circulating online show protesters chasing the fleeing vehicle along the elevated roadway before police managed to secure it.

Police confirmed that seven Brimob officers inside the vehicle at the time of the incident have been detained and are undergoing investigation at the Mobile Brigade headquarters of the Jakarta Police.

Jakarta Police Chief publicly apologized, while the National Police Chief also expressed deep regret and promised a transparent investigation. “This case will be handled seriously and openly. We are committed to ensuring justice for the victim’s family,” the police chief stated, as quoted by Liputan6 and Kontan.

The death of Affan Kurniawan triggered an outpouring of sympathy. Ojol communities organized prayer gatherings across several locations, while student activists vowed to continue protests demanding accountability from the authorities.

On social media, the hashtag #JusticeForOjol quickly trended, symbolizing nationwide outrage and solidarity. The All-Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM SI) announced plans to return to the streets, declaring, “We demand full transparency in this case. The state must not allow citizens’ lives to be lost in vain.”

The tragedy has reignited debate over the safety of ojol drivers, who not only face everyday traffic risks but are also vulnerable in unpredictable social situations like protests.

Grab emphasized that its protection programs are in place, including travel insurance, accident compensation, and driver safety training. Transportation experts, however, argue that stronger collaboration between companies, government, and the public is urgently needed. Stricter regulations, comprehensive safety training, and better legal protections are seen as crucial steps.

The Pejompongan incident underscores the importance of shared responsibility. Civilian safety does not rest solely on ride-hailing companies but also on law enforcement and road users.

Observers noted that this tragedy should serve as a turning point to strengthen regulations protecting online transport workers. Without meaningful change, similar risks could occur again.

Grab urged the public to maintain empathy and solidarity during this time of mourning. The company expressed gratitude for the widespread prayers and support extended to the victim’s family.

This tragedy is a stark reminder of the fragility of civilian safety amid social unrest. Transparent law enforcement, corporate accountability, and public awareness are key to preventing such incidents in the future.

Read also related analysis on public transportation safety and worker protection at Olam News to gain deeper insight into the solutions being pursued by various stakeholders.

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