Security Forces Control Brief Standoff in East Kalimantan
A widely circulated social media video captured the moment a group of demonstrators blocked a vehicle carrying prominent national preacher Ustaz Abdul Somad, popularly known as UAS, during his arrival in Kutai Barat, East Kalimantan. The footage showed several individuals approaching the vehicle and demanding that the cleric step outside, triggering immediate concerns over public safety.
Local police and security personnel quickly intervened to de-escalate the tension, preventing the standoff from turning into a violent clash. While official authorities have not released a statement regarding the exact motive behind the blockade, the incident follows previous online opposition from certain local factions against the preacher's scheduled visit to the region.
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Despite the brief disruption, the propagation tour proceeded as planned after UAS safely landed at Melalan Airport in Sendawar on Friday, July 3, 2026. He received a warm, modest welcome from local religious leaders, representatives of the Kutai Barat Ministry of Religious Affairs, and eager community members who had gathered at the airport terminal.
The successful execution of the massive "Tabligh Akbar" gathering at the Islamic Center Melak, which drew thousands of worshipers, followed intensive coordination meetings between regional government officials, the military, the national police, and traditional indigenous leaders to guarantee public order.