Inp.polri.go.id - Banda Aceh. The Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel on Thursday peacefully dispersed a group carrying the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) flag in Lhokseumawe, Aceh, securing one firearm and a bladed weapon to restore public order and ensure traffic safety.

“We resolved the situation through dialogue, not force, and secured a suspect carrying a pistol and a traditional weapon,” Lilawangsa Military Commander Colonel Ali Imran said, as reported by antaranews.com.

The incident occurred at Simpang Kandang, Muara Dua District, along the Banda Aceh–Medan national road, where the group briefly disrupted traffic. The soldiers negotiated with protesters, who later handed over the flags voluntarily and dispersed.

During the operation, a man suspected of provoking unrest attempted to flee but was restrained with assistance from local residents. A search found a handgun and a  traditional dagger rencong in his bag. The suspect and evidence were handed over to police officers at the scene.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)