Acid Attack on Indonesian Human Rights Activist Andrie Yunus Sparks Police Investigation
Jakarta, Indonesia – Police are investigating an acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator for External Affairs of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), which occurred on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in Central Jakarta. The attack has drawn condemnation and prompted a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
Details of the Attack
According to reports, the attack took place around 11:37 PM on Jalan Talang, Central Jakarta, as Andrie Yunus was riding his motorcycle. Two individuals on a motorcycle approached him and splashed acid onto his body. Yunus sustained burns to his hands, face, chest, and near his eyes, with medical examinations revealing burns covering 24% of his body (ABC News). Bystanders rushed to assist him before he was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
Police Investigation and Initial Findings
The Central Jakarta Police are handling the case and are examining witnesses and the crime scene (Tempo.co). Police have condemned the violence and pledged a thorough investigation. Initial investigations suggest four perpetrators were involved, following Yunus before carrying out the attack. The perpetrators scattered in different directions after the attack, with some changing clothes during their escape (Jakarta Globe).
Circulating Images and AI-Generated Content
Photos and videos purportedly showing the perpetrators have been circulating on social media. However, police have confirmed that much of this content is the result of artificial intelligence (AI) manipulation and is therefore invalid. Authorities are urging the public not to believe or share these AI-generated images, as they are believed to be part of an effort to obscure the investigation (Tempo.co).
Perpetrator Escape Route
CCTV footage analysis indicates the perpetrators fled on two motorbikes. One motorbike headed south towards the South Jakarta area, while the other went towards the Jatinegara and East Jakarta areas. One of the perpetrators is believed to have changed clothes during the escape, scattering to areas including Kalibata, Ragunan, and Bogor (Jakarta Globe).
Government Response and Commitment to Justice
The Metro Jaya Police Chief, Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri, has stated that the case will be investigated thoroughly, transparently, and professionally, in accordance with the directives of President Prabowo Subianto (Jakarta Globe). Authorities are prioritizing caution to avoid spreading false speculation and ensure a credible investigation.
KontraS’s Response and Concerns
KontraS has condemned the attack and views it as an attempt to silence critical voices and human rights defenders. The organization has urged law enforcement to swiftly and thoroughly investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice (Tirto.id).
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to analyze CCTV footage and communication network data to identify and apprehend those responsible for this violent act.