Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Thousands of Muslims dispersed after staging a demonstration in front of Jakartas City Hall in protest against blasphemy allegedly committed by Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama.

The demonstrators started dispersing at 4pm after they staged a rally at around 1.50pm after Fridays prayers.

Jakarta Metropolitan City police chief Inspector General Iriawan and Jakarta regional military commands chief Major General Teddy Lhaksmana were present at the demonstration to ensure it went off in an orderly fashion.

The demonstrators appealed to him to immediately process the case. The alleged case of blasphemy happened some time ago.

Before dispersing, the demonstrators held afternoon prayers.

Inspector General Iriawan said the demonstration remained peacefully and orderly.

"We, along with the military commands chief, came only to ensure that the demonstration went well and in an orderly and peaceful manner," he noted.

He underlined that it was important that such demonstrations in Jakarta or other regions in the country remain peaceful.

Major General Teddy Lhaksamana thanked all those who had helped in maintaining security during the demonstration.

Following the demonstration, Inspector General Iriawan and Major General Teddy Lhaksamana thanked the military and police personnel involved in securing the demonstration.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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