REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BUKITTINGGI -- Several policemen have turned preachers at masjids in Bukittinggi, West Sumatra Province. It was a part of the local police's measures to deal with potential threats of the proliferated ideology of radicalism in society.

"We directly come to enlighten our community members at masjids around the city," Bukittinggi City Police Chief Adjunct Senior Commissioner Arly Jembar Jumhana informed journalists here on Friday (Feb 1).

Several personnel of the Bukittinggi police precinct are dispatched everyday to perform the Fajr prayer, or Subh prayer, at the local masjids along with community members during which they share their knowledge of Islam, he remarked. Their presence at the congregation aims to preach of the dangers of radicalism and terrorism as well as the importance of the state ideology of Pancasila for the life of Indonesia as one nation, he stated.

This de-radicalization program, aimed at enlightening masjid goers, some of whom may be followers of uncommon ideological and philosophical beliefs, is also supported by local community figures, ulemas, and Muslim scholars. The Bukittinggi police officers involved in this deradicalization program also attempt to build a network, trust, and synergy with the local community members to strengthen a collective endeavor to halt the growth of radicalism, he explained.

In connection with this deradicalization program, the Bukittinggi city police also consults and exchanges information with the National Police's anti-terrorism squad "Special Detachment 88."

As one of West Sumatra Province's important tourist destinations, Bukittinggi should remain secure and safe for both domestic and foreign tourists.

"Do not make the visitors uncomfortable during their visit," he stated.

Last year, the Special Detachment 88 unit had apprehended a terrorist suspect in Bukittinggi and four others in the cities of Payakumbuh and Padang.

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