Civil Society Coalition Calls for General Justice in Acid Attack on KontraS Activist

Jakarta – The Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform is urging authorities to investigate the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus through the general justice system, rather than military justice. The coalition strongly condemned the alleged involvement of four TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) members in the attack, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.

Demand for Criminal Prosecution

In an official statement released Thursday, March 19, 2026, the coalition called for the four suspects to be criminally prosecuted through the general court system. Imparsial Director Ardi Manto Putra, representing the coalition, stated this approach would guarantee transparency and accountability in the handling of the case. Tempo.co reported on this call for action.

Concerns Over Military Justice

The coalition views the attack as a serious violation of human rights and a threat to democracy. They expressed concern that a trial through military justice could hinder the revelation of potential intellectual actors or a command structure involvement in the incident. They fear that focusing solely on the perpetrators in the field could allow those who may have ordered the attack to remain hidden.

Risk of Impunity

The coalition regrets the consideration of resolving the case through military justice, citing concerns about potential impunity and limited public accountability. They argue that the military justice system often fails to fully address such cases, potentially resulting in a resolution that focuses only on the immediate perpetrators without uncovering the broader context or command responsibility. Kompas.com details these concerns.

Identified Suspects

The Indonesian police and the TNI are collaborating on the investigation. Police have identified two suspects with the initials BHC and MAK, while the TNI has identified four soldiers allegedly involved: NDP, SL, BHW, and ES. Media Indonesia reports that the four TNI members are from the Air Force and Navy, with three holding the rank of officer and one as a non-commissioned officer.

Command Accountability

The coalition emphasized the need for command accountability, given the alleged involvement of military personnel. They urged heads of related institutions not to overlook this aspect of the case.

Ongoing Investigation

As of March 19, 2026, the motive for the attack remains under investigation. President Prabowo Subianto has directed a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. Tempo.co confirms this directive.