What Happened During Polri’s Visit to Hoegeng’s Tomb Ahead of 80th Police Day
What Happened During – On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, the Indonesian Police (Polri) conducted a solemn visit to the tomb of the fifth Chief of Police, General Hoegeng Iman Santoso, located at Giri Tama Cemetery in Tajurhalang Subdistrict, Bogor City, West Java. This event marked a significant moment in the preparations for the 80th celebration of National Police Day, which is scheduled to take place on June 29. The visit was not just a ceremonial act but also a symbolic gesture to honor Hoegeng’s enduring legacy in shaping modern policing in Indonesia.
Symbolic Ceremony and Historical Significance
The ziarah (visit) was meticulously organized and carried out under the supervision of the Police Oversight Body (Irwasum), led by Komjen Wahyu Widada. As the procession began, participants observed a moment of silence to reflect on Hoegeng’s contributions to the nation’s security and justice system. This act of reverence underscores the deep respect Polri holds for its founding figures, whose sacrifices and vision continue to influence the force’s mission today.
Hoegeng, who served as Police Chief from 1966 to 1973, played a pivotal role in modernizing the Indonesian police during a period of political and social upheaval. His leadership during the 1965-1966 turmoil, where he prioritized stability and public order, remains a cornerstone of the police’s role in national affairs. The visit to his tomb on the eve of the 80th Police Day highlights how his values and principles are still relevant in today’s context.
What Happened During the ziarah was marked by a solemn atmosphere, with participants following a traditional order of proceedings. The ceremony included the placement of floral offerings at Hoegeng’s memorial, a practice that honors the deceased while reinforcing their connection to the present. The floral arrangements, handpicked by the family of the late general, were a tribute to his enduring influence and the unity within the police community.
Participants and Emotional Impact
High-ranking officers, including senior generals and commanders, attended the event, underscoring the importance of Hoegeng’s legacy in the eyes of the current police force. What Happened During the ziarah also featured a heartfelt reading of prayers, with all participants bowing in unison to pay homage to Hoegeng’s memory. This collective gesture symbolized the shared commitment to upholding the values he championed, such as discipline, integrity, and public service.
Among the attendees was Krisnadi Ramajaya Hoegeng, Hoegeng’s grandson, who personally placed the first floral offering at the tomb. His presence added a personal touch to the ceremony, bridging the past and present generations of the police force. The emotional weight of the event was palpable, as the participants reflected on Hoegeng’s role in fostering a sense of national identity through policing.
Following the prayer, the ceremony concluded with the scattering of flowers over Hoegeng’s resting place, a symbolic act representing the continuation of his legacy. The entire process, from the initial moment of silence to the final scattering of flowers, was designed to evoke a sense of continuity and gratitude. This ritual not only honors Hoegeng but also reinforces the bond between the police and the people they serve, a theme central to the 80th Police Day celebrations.
