As Isis threatens, how will Indonesia handle police chief Tito’s departure?

Tito Karnavian has been a leading figure in the country’s fight against terrorism for almost two decades

He will only be indirectly involved in counterterrorism activities in his new role, but analysts are confident Indonesia has the right systems and personnel in place

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Newly appointed Indonesian Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian. Photo: Reuters

Published: 8:15am, 30 Oct 2019Updated: 9:59pm, 30 Oct 2019

The appointment of former national police chief Tito Karnavian – a leading figure in the country’s fight against terrorism for almost two decades – as Indonesia’s home affairs minister comes as the Southeast Asian nation faces renewed threats from Islamic State (Isis), but analysts are confident in the ability of Tito’s nominated successor, police general Idham Azis, to step into his shoes.

The home affairs minister’s portfolio does not include overseeing the police force, which reports directly to the president. However, Tito, 54, will still be indirectly involved in Indonesia’s counterterrorism activities as his ministry is charged with formulating draft bills on domestic security, according to a police source.

Tito’s departure comes as Indonesian police are concerned with the activities of Isis affiliate Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) and the looming return of battle-hardened fighters from Syria, among others.

Terror expert Ali Fauzi, a PhD candidate from the University of Muhammadiyah Malang, believes JAD cell members are the biggest threat Indonesia is currently facing, as most of the terror attacks in the country since 2016 were perpetrated by the group.

“Most of the Isis returnees have been identified by authorities, while the new [JAD] recruits have not been identified,” said Ali, who had two older brothers executed for their role in the 2002 Bali bombings.

Ali set up the Circle of Peace Foundation to help those convicted of terrorism to disengage from violence and help them find work to prevent them from returning to their old life. He has apologised for his brothers’ actions.

Indonesia’s elite anti-terror police unit Densus 88 during a training exercise in 2010. Photo: AFP