A senior officer in the Indonesian Military (TNI) has stepped down following an acid attack on an activist who opposes the expanded role of the military, a spokesperson announced Thursday.
Leadership Change Amid Investigation
Military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Aulia Dwi Nasrullah confirmed to Reuters a “handing over of position” by Lt. Gen. Yudi Abrimantyo, the military’s intelligence unit (BAIS) chief, as a matter of responsibility related to the attack.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
Andrie Yunus, a deputy coordinator with the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), sustained burns to 20 percent of his face and body when attacked with acid by assailants on a motorcycle on March 12. The attack drew condemnation both locally and internationally, with UN human rights chief Volker Turk calling it a “cowardly act of violence.”
TNI previously stated that if found guilty, the arrested officers face punishments ranging from disciplinary action to dishonorable discharge. Lt. Gen. Yudi Abrimantyo was not among those arrested.
Growing Concerns and Political Context
The incident occurs amid growing concern over the erosion of democratic values in Indonesia, with increased military involvement in civilian areas and state-run businesses under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto, a retired general.
President Prabowo Subianto has described the attack as “terrorism,” pledging a thorough investigation and promising no impunity. He vowed to “uphold the law” regardless of who is responsible.
Calls for Independent Investigation
Hundreds of civil society groups, including Amnesty International, have alleged the attack on Andrie Yunus was attempted murder. KontraS has urged Prabowo to form an independent team to investigate the case, advocating for it to be handled by civil courts rather than a military court, a position echoed by Human Rights Watch.
Andrie Yunus remains hospitalized in Jakarta, currently in intensive care following surgery on Wednesday to treat injuries to his right eye, and skin grafts to his eye, chest, and shoulder areas, according to KontraS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Andrie Yunus?
Andrie Yunus, a deputy coordinator with KontraS, suffered burns to 20 percent of his face and body in an acid attack on March 12.
Who has taken responsibility for the attack?
Lt. Gen. Yudi Abrimantyo, the military’s intelligence unit chief, stepped down as a form of responsibility for the attack.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The TNI has arrested four officers from the intelligence unit in connection with the attack. KontraS is urging the formation of an independent investigation team.
What implications will this case have for the relationship between the military and civilian society in Indonesia?
