The social media blockade was meant to prevent the spreading of fake news and provocative posts that may trigger further escalation of the situation
Indonesia’s minister of security Wiranto today announced that the authorities will limit access to several features on social media platforms in certain areas in Jakarta, following the post-election riots that have been going on in the city since yesterday.
The blockade was meant to prevent the spreading of fake news and provocative posts that may trigger further escalation of the situation.
The minister did not provide further detail on which feature on social media platforms that are being blocked.
However, several users on Twitter have reported being unable to upload videos and pictures to their Whatsapp and Instagram accounts.
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The blockade followed a riot that has been going on since Tuesday evening, May 21.
Starting off in the Tanah Abang area in Central Jakarta, by this afternoon (local time) the riot has spread to Slipi in West Jakarta.
According to a report by The Jakarta Post, the riot has caused six deaths and 200 injuries.
The riot began when thousands rally to protest the announcement of the recent presidential election results, which revealed incumbent President Joko Widodo as the winner.
More on this story as it develops.
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Image Credit: Sara Kurfeß on Unsplash
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Source: E27