The recent appointment of two high-ranking police generals in Indonesia, brothers Irjen Herry Heryawan and Irjen Hanny Hidayat, has captured public interest and admiration. Irjen Herry Heryawan now serves as the Police Chief of Riau, while his younger brother, Irjen Hanny Hidayat, holds the position of Head of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) in the Riau Islands (Kepri).
This significant development unfolded when the National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, tasked Irjen Herry Heryawan with the role of Police Chief of Riau, replacing Irjen Mohammad Iqbal who graduated from the Police Academy in 1991. The official transfer was documented in a confidential Telegram with the number 488/III/2025 dated March 12, 2025.
Irjen Herry Heryawan, a graduate of the Police Academy in 1996, has paved a remarkable career path, following in the footsteps of his younger brother Brigjen Hanny Hidayat. Meanwhile, Brigjen Hanny Hidayat, a 1998 Police Academy graduate, now heads the BNN in Kepri.
Irjen Herry Heryawan’s Profile
Irjen Herry Heryawan, born on February 23, 1972, stands out as one of the brightest alumni of the 1996 Police Academy. In a historic moment, he became the first graduate of the 1996 class to achieve the rank of Inspector General, denoted by a two-star insignia. The promotion to Irjen was bestowed upon Herry Heryawan on a memorable Friday, November 17, 2023.
The elevation ceremony, presided over by Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, took place in a grand event at the Rupatama Building, Headquarters of the National Police, in South Jakarta on that same Friday. Out of the 13 senior police officers (pati) honored at the ceremony, Irjen Herry Heryawan, affectionately known as Herimen, rose from Brigadier General (Brigjen) to Inspector General (Irjen).
Irjen Herry Heryawan, known for his expertise in cases ranging from street crime to drug trafficking and terrorism, had previously made headlines for his involvement in the arrest of notorious figure John Refra, also known as John Kei. His remarkable track record led to his appointment as Inspector General for the role of Special Staff to the Minister of Home Affairs.
The collaboration and shared journey of these two distinguished brothers in law enforcement exemplify a deep commitment to serving and protecting the community. Their dedication to upholding justice and combating crime embodies the highest ideals of the Indonesian National Police force. The future looks promising with their continued leadership and contributions to the safety and security of the nation.
