Indonesia on high alert after Jakarta attacks

JAKARTA. The National Police have tightened security across the country following suicide bombings and armed attacks in the heart of the capital on Thursday.

National Police spokesman Insp Gen Anton Charliyan said that as of 5 p.m. Thursday, an alert one status was implemented nationwide.

The status was escalated for all relevant agencies and officials to maximize security, especially in terror-prone areas, such as police posts, government offices, foreign-associated sites and embassies, he said on Thursday evening.

"[We are] on full alert because we cannot predict [terrorists'] movements. Their hiding places are not only in Jakarta or in Java but throughout Indonesia," he said, urging people to be aware of their surroundings and to cooperate with the police.

The blasts and gunshots on Jl. MH Thamrin in Central Jakarta on Thursday afternoon claimed seven lives, including five terrorists, police confirmed.

The police have coordinated with the Indonesian Military (TNI) regarding security measures. Authorities have also tightened security at airports across the country.