Police to Question Lawmaker on Terror Attack Hoax Claim
Jakarta. The National Police will question a lawmaker who publicly stated that the report of a planned terrorist attack on the State Palace in Jakarta was merely a diversion from Governor Basuki "Ahok Tjahaja Purnama's high-profile blasphemy trial.
National Police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian denied rumors on Friday (16/12) that the plot was a hoax and said he was ready to step down if proven wrong.
Comedian-turned-lawmaker Eko Patrio, who said the planned attack was meant to distract public attention from the trial, has been summoned by the National Police criminal investigation unit to clarify his claims.
"We will question him. One should not make arbitrary statements, especially if he is a lawmaker, an official," Tito said. "We want to ask him if he has any proof. If he does, he should not be afraid to submit that immediately."
Tito said he is ready to face House of Representatives Commission III, which oversees legal affairs and security, to explain the matter.
"If there is proof that [the plot] was engineered, fine. If necessary, our officers will be fired. I am also ready to resign. If not, he [Eko] should be held responsible for his claims," Tito said.
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