An activist with the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), Andrie Yunus, was doused with acid by an unidentified assailant in the Salemba area of Central Jakarta. The attack has prompted calls for a thorough investigation from Indonesian lawmakers.
“I ask the police to immediately investigate thoroughly who the perpetrator and mastermind are behind this attack and to reveal the motive clearly,” said Deputy Chairman of Commission III of the House of Representatives, Ahmad Sahroni, to reporters on Friday, March 13, 2026.
Sahroni emphasized that the acid attack on the KontraS activist is a troubling development for Indonesian democracy, particularly if linked to the victim’s previous work.
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“This kind of terror is very detrimental to the climate of our democracy. Especially if the motive is related to the victim’s activities,” he explained.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, March 12, around 11:30 p.m. Local time on Jalan Salemba, Senen, Central Jakarta. Police are currently investigating the case as an aggravated assault.
Investigators are taking several steps, including examining the crime scene and collecting digital evidence such as CCTV footage. So far, two witnesses have been questioned, and that number may increase as the investigation progresses.
Yunus sustained severe burns to his face, chest, and hands.
National Police Pledge Thorough Investigation
National Police have assured the public that the case will be fully investigated. Authorities have reviewed CCTV footage and interviewed several witnesses.
“On this occasion, what we need to convey is that the Chief of Police, as the leader of the National Police, has given special attention to the handling and disclosure of this case,” said National Police Public Relations Head, Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir, at Police Headquarters in South Jakarta on Friday, March 13, 2026.
Isir stated that the case is being handled by the Central Jakarta Police. He added that the Metro Jaya Regional Police and the Criminal Investigation Unit are providing assistance to expedite the investigation.
“in following up on the attention and direction of the Chief of Police, the handling by the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Central Jakarta Police is being supported by the Metro Jaya Regional Police and from the Criminal Investigation Unit, specifically and colleagues from Police Headquarters,” Isir said.
“The Police also ensures that the investigation process and prosecution, part of law enforcement, are carried out scientifically,” he added.
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(isa/idn)
