According to local reports, tensions flared as residents resisted efforts by security forces to clear food stalls at Tanjung Aan Beach. Stall owners pushed back against relocation orders, arguing that the decision lacked proper consultation and approval. “Please spread the word globally that the Indonesian government, police, and military are taking actions without any consultation, negotiation, or compensation,” stated community advocate Hery Sandi in front of foreign tourists at Tanjung Aan Beach on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. Hery also extended apologies to the visitors for the situation, criticizing the government’s heavy-handed tactics in dealing with residents. “We are sorry. What’s the purpose of this? This is how the Indonesian government operates—deploying police and military to announce projects in the area. Shouldn’t these initiatives serve the community’s interests?” he passionately remarked.
Meanwhile, Lombok Tengah Police Chief AKPB Eko Yusmiart claimed there has been no significant opposition regarding the clearance of stalls at Tanjung Aan Beach, asserting that all stall owners had received prior notifications before the eviction process. “We informed them ahead of time. Therefore, today we are moving forward with the eviction,” Eko explained. He insisted that residents had no legal grounds to remain on the land, which he noted is part of the Mandalika Special Economic Zone and is managed by Injourny Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC).
