Densus 88 Arrests 11 Suspected Militants in Nationwide Raids

Indonesian counterterrorism forces arrested 11 suspected militants across six provinces in nationwide raids that began on October 2, 2026, according to the National Police’s Densus 88 counterterrorism unit. The operation targeted individuals aged 22 to 52 who investigators say are affiliated with the Daulah Islamiyah network and connected through online recruitment, network consolidation, and virtual rooms for indoctrination and weapons training, as reported by Indonesia Business Post.

Six-Province Raids Target Daulah Islamiyah Suspects

The nationwide raids spanned West Java, Central Java, Central Sulawesi, South Sulawesi, Riau, and North Maluku provinces. Densus 88 spokesman Senior Commissioner Mayndra Eka Wardhana stated that the suspects communicated via virtual rooms to connect supporters from several regions for network-building and propaganda dissemination. According to Tempo, investigators identified 11 specific suspects by their initials: HN, 43; SM alias NM, 52; HA, 45; YDKAP, 22; Y, 36; S, 49; A, 32; CG, 29; MF, 37; AF, 26; and MW, 42. Among them, 22-year-old YDKAP was apprehended in Surakarta City’s Jebres District late on October 1, 2026, with family representatives stating they received an official arrest warrant the following morning.

Suspects Participated in Physical Training and Shooting Exercises

Investigators uncovered evidence indicating that several suspects participated in physical training and shooting exercises. While the counterterrorism unit has not disclosed specific training locations or whether weapons were seized during the operation, Indonesia Business Post reported that digital platforms remain a central focus for extremist networks engaged in recruitment and network consolidation.

Prevention Efforts Amid a Four-Year Attack Lull

The October 2026 arrests occur as Indonesia marks four years without a verified terrorist attack, following a December 2022 suicide bombing at a Bandung police station that left one officer dead and 10 others wounded. National Counter-Terrorism Agency chief Eddy Hartono stated in August 2026 that law enforcement had successfully thwarted approximately 28 planned attacks over the preceding four years. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre noted on October 2, 2026, that digital fundraising, self-funding, and the misuse of non-profit organizations represent ongoing financial risks for extremist groups.

The law enforcement action is part of the police’s efforts at early detection and prevention of potential acts of terrorism.

Densus 88