At least three people have died and several others were injured after a fire broke out in a government building during violent protests in Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia.
The fire happened on Friday evening at the regional parliament building, about 1,600 km (994 miles) east of Jakarta. According to the country’s disaster management agency, two people died at the scene, while another died in the hospital. Officials said some victims were trapped inside the burning building, and two of the injured were hurt while jumping from windows to escape the flames.
Authorities blamed the fire on protesters, accusing them of storming the building and setting it ablaze. The fire has since been extinguished, but the incident has shocked the nation.
The unrest began after a motorcycle delivery driver, Affan Kuniawan, was allegedly run over and killed by a police tactical vehicle during a protest in Jakarta on Thursday night. Videos of the incident quickly went viral, sparking outrage and mass protests across major cities, including Jakarta and Bandung.
The demonstrations started over low wages and alleged government corruption, but the driver’s death escalated the anger into the biggest and most violent protests since President Prabowo Subianto took office less than a year ago.
How Bad Are the Protests?
Hundreds of people gathered outside the police headquarters in Jakarta, accusing the Brimob paramilitary police unit of using excessive force.
Protesters threw stones and firecrackers, while police fired tear gas to disperse the crowds.
In Bandung, several commercial buildings, including a bank and a restaurant, were set on fire.
Over 200 people have been injured, according to local reports.
Police said they have detained seven officers for questioning over the death of the delivery driver.
President Prabowo called for calm, ordered an investigation, and personally visited the victim’s family. While expressing sympathy, he warned that the protests were turning into “anarchic actions” and urged people to stop the violence.
The protests are seen as a major test for Prabowo’s leadership, raising concerns about police brutality and public trust in the government.
The situation remains tense, with more demonstrations expected in the coming days. Authorities fear further violence if dialogue and accountability are not prioritized.
