The Use of Robots in Indonesian Police Force: A Technological Advancement

On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the parade commemorating the 79th anniversary of the Indonesian National Police at the National Monument in Jakarta showcased several sophisticated robots, said to be part of the transformation of the Indonesian National Police's technology. The robots included humanoid robots, dog robots or I-K9, tank robots, and robots for agricultural purposes.

Executive Director of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Institute, Heru Sutadi, considered these innovations as a positive step but cautioned about several aspects that need attention. "As an innovation, it's good. It can be used for dangerous activities such as bomb disposal," he said when contacted by Tempo on Tuesday.

However, Heru highlighted the aspects of cost and efficient use of resources if these robots were to be used more extensively. "And indeed, the price and quantity need to be considered if we want to maximize their use. I'm sure they are not cheap," he said. "So, the cost and the existing personnel need to be considered if we want to replace many police personnel."

Heru also warned against the use of robots in handling demonstrations. "My note is, I hope these robot police officers are not used to handle demonstrations or protests for fear of brutality due to the lack of humanity," he said.

Previously, the Head of Public Relations Bureau of the Indonesian National Police's Public Relations Division Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko stated that the introduced humanoid robot is able to perform various activities such as running, marching, and giving salutes. The robot is also equipped with police attributes such as a beret and a vest.

Trunoyudo emphasized that the use of these robots is part of the Indonesian National Police's commitment to adopting modern technological advancements, including handling potential riots such as brawls that often occur in Jakarta.

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of the Indonesian National Police's General Inspection Inspectorate, Dedi Prasetyo, explained that these robots are designed to support police tasks in the future. "They are designed to take on roles in high-risk locations to reduce human exposure to danger and increase operational accuracy," Dedi said in his statement on Friday, June 27, 2025.

Dedi detailed the seven main functions of these robots. Firstly, for surveillance and monitoring in dangerous areas such as abandoned buildings or disaster locations. Secondly, for handling dangerous situations including bomb disposal and hostage situations. Thirdly, for search and rescue of victims in natural disasters and fires.

Fourth, the robots will be used in collecting forensic evidence such as fingerprints and DNA samples. Fifth, for traffic surveillance through monitoring violations and vehicle identification. Sixth, for smart patrols with facial recognition technology. Lastly, the robots are also designed to detect dangerous substances such as bombs, narcotics, and chemicals.

Raihan Muzzaki and Hammam Izzudin contributed to this article.

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