What is Klitih, a Street Crime in Yogyakarta? Learn about its Origin and Difference from Brawls and Muggings

Kapanlagi.com - A recent case of street violence in Yogyakarta has sparked public concern, with the term klitih becoming a hot topic in social media discussions. But what does klitih actually mean?

Many people are curious about what klitih is, especially those who live far from the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) and Central Java. This has led many to believe that klitih is the same as brawls or muggings because they all happen on the street.

However, the motives behind these three crimes are different. So, if you're curious about the meaning of klitih in Yogyakarta, read on for more information.

1. Meaning of Klitih

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After the viral case of street crime in Yogyakarta on social media, the term 'klitih' has once again caught the attention of the public. Actually, this case not only happened in Yogyakarta, but also in surrounding areas such as Magelang and Semarang. After this phenomenon became a national issue, people who live far from the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) and Central Java became curious about the meaning of 'klitih'.

Based on several cases that have occurred, 'klitih' can be understood as street crime that occurs in DIY and surrounding areas. This action is carried out by young people who harm other riders at night. The targets are usually random. Usually, the victims are people who happen to pass by on deserted streets at night. Then, the perpetrators carry out physical bullying using sharp weapons such as knives, razors, machetes, and so on. Because of the torture, the victims can suffer serious injuries and even death.

2. Origin of Klitih

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Although now 'klitih' is synonymous with violence, actually its origin is far from that impression. Initially, 'klitih' was a term used by the people of DIY to refer to activities of going out to wander around and spend leisure time without a clear purpose. In this case, 'klitih' is actually the same as other activities that aim to relieve stress.

Unfortunately, over time the activities of people who have free time are filled with criminal actions on the streets. Most of the perpetrators caught are young people or students. This has caused the meaning of 'klitih' to shift to criminal activities that are synonymous with teenagers and sharp weapons.

3. Differences Between Klitih, Tawuran, and Begal

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People who hear news about klitih usually think that it is the same as tawuran, begal action, or robbery on the street. However, the motives are different.

Tawuran is a fight carried out en masse or massively between two specific groups or gangs. The motive of tawuran is usually a dispute or generational problem between two hostile groups. Meanwhile, begal is a robbery of property with or without physical torture. The main motive of begal is wealth.

Disputes and wealth are not the main motives of klitih. Instead of taking property or seeking revenge for a particular problem, klitih attacks riders on the road just as a pastime. After injuring the target, the perpetrators then leave.

Based on the cases that have occurred, klitih is also considered as a proving ground for teenagers who want to find their identity. After proving themselves brave by carrying out attacks, their existence in the friendship or gang environment is recognized.

Such motives make people worried. This can be seen from various conversations on social media about klitih cases that are increasingly occurring during Ramadan 2022. The sense of worry arises because anyone can become the next target, even though there are many professions or certain activities that force someone to still be outside until late at night. People who actually have no problems with anyone can become victims of violence on the street.

Based on the cases that have occurred, klitih is also considered a proving ground for teenagers who want to find their identity. After proving their courage in carrying out attacks, their existence in their circle of friends or gang is recognized.

Such motives make society worried. This can be seen from various conversations on social media about klitih cases that are increasingly happening during Ramadan 2022. The worry arises because anyone can become the next target, even though there are many professions or activities that force someone to stay outside until late at night. People who actually have no problems with anyone can become victims of violence on the street.

4. Efforts of DIY Government to Overcome Klitih

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Seeing the increasingly frequent cases of street crimes, the public is becoming more concerned about the safety of themselves or their loved ones when outside the house. The perpetrators of street crimes have become enemies of the general public in Yogyakarta and its surrounding areas. This case also tarnishes the image of Yogyakarta as a student city and tourist destination that should be able to guarantee the safety of its citizens.

According to Merdeka website, the local government and police in Yogyakarta have taken several steps to address this issue so that the safety and order of the community can be truly maintained.

1. Jaga Warga

Jaga Warga is a group that helps to resolve social conflicts in the community. Jaga Warga operates in all neighborhoods in Yogyakarta. Jaga Warga in the neighborhood level is asked to monitor the activities of young people after community learning hours.

2. Regular Education

Regular education will be carried out as an effort to develop awareness regarding street crimes through Bhabinkamtibmas. In addition, there will also be a raid on student bags and the addition of CCTV in crime-prone areas.

3. Anticipating New Patterns of Street Crimes

Although street crime perpetrators are not as numerous as those involved in gang fights, this group is suspected to have an organized group. Therefore, this crime can be further investigated through the patterns of the cases that have occurred.

According to Merdeka.com, Deputy Mayor of Yogyakarta, Heroe Poerwadi, said that the latest street crime case has a new pattern and is different from previous street crimes. Further assessment is needed to determine the root of the problem, so that appropriate prevention efforts can be carried out.

That is the explanation of the meaning of klitih or street crimes that are currently a hot topic among netizens.

(kpl/gen/ans)