Following recent deadly floods and landslides in North Sumatra, authorities in Sibolga have arrested 16 individuals accused of looting multiple minimarkets on Saturday. The incidents highlight the desperation facing residents as they struggle with the aftermath of the disaster, which has displaced over 2,000 people [[3]] and left at least eight confirmed fatalities. Police have deployed additional security to retail areas to prevent further unrest amid ongoing relief efforts.
Sibolga, Indonesia – Police in North Sumatra have arrested 16 people following a wave of looting at minimarkets in the city of Sibolga on Saturday, November 29, 2025. The incidents occurred amid ongoing recovery efforts following recent landslides and flooding that have left residents in need of assistance.
Authorities secured the suspects as they attempted to steal goods from multiple stores, according to a statement from the Sibolga Police Department.
“Satreskrim Polres Sibolga has secured 16 individuals involved in the looting of several minimarkets,” said Criminal Investigation Unit Chief AKP Rustam E Silaban on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
Those arrested have been identified as MHH (20), SS (24), AZ (27), ZR (24), OFH (18), ART (19), DH (20), ISS (18), A (18), MS (18), BA (18), ER (21), DAM (18), ABS (18), D (18) and BNH (17). Police say the group targeted a variety of items, including packaged drinks, sausages, sugar, soap, and snacks.
SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT
“The suspects were apprehended at different locations with evidence including snacks, drinks, and various household necessities,” Silaban explained.
The affected businesses include three Indomaret locations on Jalan Sisingamangaraja, Jalan Suprapto, and Jalan Sibolga-Barus, as well as one Alfamidi on Jalan Sisingamangaraja. Three Alfamart stores – on Jalan Imam Bonjol, Jalan Suprapto, and Jalan Merpati – were also targeted. The looting reportedly took place Saturday morning.
Joint teams of police and military personnel are now stationed at minimarkets and shopping centers throughout Sibolga to prevent further incidents. The increased security presence comes as authorities work to stabilize the region following the natural disasters.
“The situation in Sibolga is currently under strict surveillance by combined TNI/Polri forces,” Silaban stated. “We urge the public not to be provoked and to maintain order for the safety of all.”
(astj/astj)
