Seven people have been arrested and detained after a failed terror plot to attack Pope Francis during his visit to Indonesia, the first stop in his 12-day Asia-Pacific tour. The suspects were apprehended on September 2 and 3 following tip-offs from the public, according to the Indonesian police. Investigations are ongoing.
Background
The arrests were made in Jakarta and the outlying cities of Bogor and Bekasi, as well as in West Sumatra province and Bangka Belitung Islands province. The suspects had allegedly planned to attack Pope Francis due to their anger over his visit to Jakarta’s Istiqlal mosque and the government’s request for television stations to refrain from broadcasting the Islamic call to prayer during the pope’s visit. The militants had posted online threats, including bomb attacks on the pope’s public meetings in Jakarta.
Searches conducted
During searches of the suspects’ homes, police found bows and arrows, a drone, and ISIS leaflets. Some of the arrested individuals had pledged allegiance to ISIS. The militants had also threatened to set fire to meeting locations, including Jakarta’s cathedral, the presidential palace, and the national football stadium.
Security stepped up
In response to the threats, security was significantly increased for the remainder of the pope’s visit. Roads were re-routed or closed, and a security detail of around 4,000 people was deployed to protect him. Pope Francis departed Indonesia safely on September 6 and has since arrived in Papua New Guinea, the second stop of his tour.
Future itinerary
Pope Francis will stay in Papua New Guinea until September 9 before heading to Timor Leste and finally, Singapore. He is scheduled to depart for Rome on September 13. The increased security measures are expected to continue throughout the remainder of his tour to ensure his safety.
