Indonesian authorities have detained four military personnel suspected of involvement in an acid attack on Andri Yunus, a human rights activist from KontraS, who was seriously injured after criticizing the military's political interference. President Prabowo has ordered a transparent investigation amid concerns about threats to freedom of expression.
Indonesian military police confirmed the detention of four intelligence officers suspected in the attack on Andri Yunus, an official from KontraS, a leading human rights organization investigating disappearances in Indonesia.
The incident occurred last week while Andri was riding a motorcycle home after recording a podcast about the military's increasing role in politics. Two men on a motorcycle approached and threw acid at him, causing severe burns over more than 20% of his body, affecting his face, chest, hands, and eyes. He is currently hospitalized in Jakarta.
Andri is a key voice opposing last year's military law amendments that allow military officers to hold government positions. He is also under investigation regarding alleged violent suppression of anti-government protesters last year. Civil society groups revealed that Andri had been threatened and harassed in various ways in the days leading up to the attack.
Volker Turk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed deep concern, viewing the attack as an "attempt to silence critics of the state." Human rights groups have urged President Prabowo Subianto, a former general and current head of state, to establish an independent commission to investigate the case.
Recently, a presidential spokesperson stated that President Prabowo Subianto has ordered a "straightforward, transparent, and swift" investigation to restore confidence among the public and the international community.
This incident highlights the long-standing threats faced by activists in Indonesia. In January, rights campaigners were threatened with chicken carcasses and bottle bombs after criticizing the government's flood management, reflecting growing constraints on political expression.
,BBC