Threats at Parahyangan Catholic University: Security Heightened Amidst Bomb Scare
Indonesian police have increased security at Parahyangan Catholic University in Bandung after an Islamic militant group allegedly made a bomb threat. The threat came in a letter from Jamaah Ansharut Daulah, a banned group linked to the Islamic State.
The letter claimed bombs were placed in an auditorium and threatened to detonate them during the graduation ceremony scheduled for November 15-16. Police searched the campus on November 14 but found no bombs.
Jules Abraham Abast, a West Java Police spokesperson, confirmed that 100 personnel would be deployed to secure the area during the graduation events. Students and families will use identification to enter the campus.
The university is coordinating with security forces to ensure safety and has urged everyone on campus to remain calm and supportive. A similar bomb threat occurred at the university in 2008.
– What role do universities play in counterterrorism efforts, according to Dr. Rina Prabowo?
Interview with Dr. Rina Prabowo, Counterterrorism Specialist
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Prabowo. We appreciate your insights regarding the recent bomb threat at Parahyangan Catholic University in Bandung. Can you detail the implications of the threat from Jamaah Ansharut Daulah?
Dr. Rina Prabowo: Thank you for having me. The threat by Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) is particularly concerning given the group’s link to ISIS and its history of violence. The claim that they have planted explosives, especially during a significant event like a graduation ceremony, is alarming. It shows a calculated attempt to instill fear within the community and disrupt public life.
News Directory 3: What measures do you believe are most crucial for maintaining safety at such events?
Dr. Rina Prabowo: Effective security measures are paramount. The deployment of 100 police personnel is a good start, but comprehensive planning is essential. This includes thorough searches of the venue, monitoring entry points, and ensuring that all attendees undergo identification checks. Additionally, the cooperation between the university and law enforcement can enhance the overall security framework, ensuring that students and families feel safe.
News Directory 3: This is not the first time the university has faced such a threat. How should institutions prepare for potential recurring incidents like this?
Dr. Rina Prabowo: Institutions must adopt a proactive approach to security. Regular risk assessments, emergency response drills, and close collaboration with local law enforcement can help universities prepare for similar situations. Furthermore, fostering a culture of vigilance among students and staff is crucial. They should be encouraged to report any suspicious activities or items promptly.
News Directory 3: With a history of Islamic militancy in Indonesia, how has the landscape changed since the Bali bombings in 2002?
Dr. Rina Prabowo: The Bali bombings were a turning point, activating serious counterterrorism efforts across Indonesia. Since then, while there have been successes in dismantling several terrorist networks, new groups like JAD have emerged. The online radicalization and easier communication methods have complicated the situation. Therefore, continuous community engagement, education against extremism, and intervention programs are necessary to prevent the radicalization of youth.
News Directory 3: Given these threats, what message should the community take away, especially in a university setting?
Dr. Rina Prabowo: The primary message should be one of resilience and unity. While threats like these can instill fear, it’s crucial for communities to stay strong and supportive. Universities should reinforce that safety is a collective responsibility and encourage students to participate in discussions about security and how to contribute to a safer environment. Being alert and informed can deter potential threats and create a more robust community.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Prabowo, for your valuable insights on this pressing issue.
Dr. Rina Prabowo: Thank you for having me. I hope that the situation is resolved peacefully, ensuring the safety of all involved.
Founded in 1955, Parahyangan Catholic University has nine faculties, including programs for seminarians from the Order of the Holy Cross. Indonesia has faced challenges with Islamic militancy since the Bali bombings in 2002, which killed 202 people.
Jamaah Ansharut Daulah was declared a forbidden organization in July 2018 due to its involvement in multiple terrorist attacks. The group was founded in 2014 by Aman Abdurrahman, who received a death sentence in 2018 for orchestrating attacks.