JAKARTA – Four Indonesian military personnel appeared in court Wednesday facing charges related to an acid attack on a human rights advocate who spoke out against the military’s growing influence in civilian affairs. Prosecutors are seeking maximum prison sentences of 12 years for each defendant.
Andrie Yunus, who serves as deputy coordinator for KontraS (Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence), sustained severe chemical burns covering one-fifth of his face and body when attackers on a motorcycle doused him with acid on March 12.
The assault left Yunus with lasting disfigurement and significant damage to his right eye, prompting widespread criticism both domestically and internationally.
Court records indicate the four defendants face charges of serious premeditated assault under Indonesia’s criminal code, which carries potential sentences up to 12 years behind bars.
Military prosecutor Mohammad Iswadi told the military tribunal that the intelligence unit officers allegedly targeted Yunus in retaliation for his protests against legislative changes that expanded military appointments to civilian government positions.
“With the incident, the suspects deemed Andrie Yunus to have insulted and stomped on the military as an institution,” Iswadi stated, revealing that the attackers used a combination of automotive battery acid and rust removal chemicals.
Reuters could not immediately reach the four officers or their attorneys for comment. The defendants, whose ranks span from captain to second sergeant, were all present at Wednesday’s proceedings.
Indonesia’s national human rights commission, Komnas HAM, has identified at least 14 individuals connected to the attack through its independent inquiry.
“The attack could lead to fear among civilians to criticise government officials,” the commission warned.
The human rights body expressed concern that trying the case in military court limits public oversight and may result in more lenient treatment for the officers. It has called for civilian courts to handle proceedings against the remaining 10 suspects.
Democratic institutions in Indonesia, ranked as the world’s third-largest democracy, face increasing pressure as military involvement in civilian sectors and state enterprises has expanded substantially under President Prabowo Subianto, a former general.
Prior to the attack, Yunus had participated in a podcast discussion about the military’s broadening authority in civilian matters.
President Prabowo characterized the assault on Yunus as “terrorism” last month and committed to ensuring a comprehensive investigation.
