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Today in History: Trisakti killings spark riots, force Suharto resignation

5/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 12 May 1998, Indonesian army troops opened fire on unarmed demonstrators at Trisakti University in Jakarta, killing students Elang Mulia Lesmana, Heri Hertanto, Hafidin Royan and Hendriawan Sie. The massacre sparked citywide riots and a nationwide revolutionary wave that forced President Suharto to resign nine days later.

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Story summary

On 12 May 1998, Indonesian army troops opened fire on unarmed demonstrators at Trisakti University in Jakarta, killing students Elang Mulia Lesmana, Heri Hertanto, Hafidin Royan and Hendriawan Sie. The massacre sparked citywide riots and a nationwide revolutionary wave that forced President Suharto to resign nine days later.