PENGENDALIAN MASSA OLEH APARAT KEPOLISIAN DALAM AKSI UNJUK RASA MAHASISWA YANG MERUSAK FASILITAS UMUM (Studi di Polda Sultra)

Abstract

This study discusses the phenomenon of public facility destruction that occurred during student demonstrations in Kendari City, using a sociological legal approach. Demonstrations are a form of freedom of expression that is protected by law, but often result in destructive actions that harm the wider community. This study aims to identify the factors causing the destruction of public facilities and evaluate the efforts made by the police in dealing with the problem. The results of the study indicate that the destruction of public facilities during demonstrations is caused by several main factors, namely social and economic dissatisfaction, emotional dynamics of the masses, provocation by external parties, lack of understanding of legal consequences, and lack of effective mediation mechanisms. In stressful situations, masses tend to be easily provoked, so that destructive actions often occur. From the perspective of the police, handling demonstrations is carried out through preventive efforts such as coordination with the organizers of the demonstration, legal education, and risk mapping. During the demonstration, the authorities prioritize a humanist approach in controlling the crowd and securing public facilities. If destruction occurs, law enforcement is applied to provide a deterrent effect, followed by a post-action evaluation to improve handling strategies in the future. This study recommends the need for increased dialogue between authorities and the community, the use of technology to monitor mass actions, and the provision of effective mediation channels. With a holistic and collaborative approach, it is hoped that demonstrations can take place in an orderly manner without causing harm to public facilities or the wider community.