Indonesian Military Court Sentences Defendants in Acid Attack Case

Indonesian Military Court Hands Down Sentences

Four members of an Indonesian military intelligence unit received prison sentences on Wednesday for their roles in an acid attack. The attack targeted Andrie Yunus, a well-known human rights advocate. Critics have decried the proceedings as “a blatant whitewash.”

The incident sparked controversy because military prosecutors took over the case, despite objections from Mr. Yunus. Critics, including human rights activists, argued that civilian judges should have handled the case. The sentences ranged from 18 months to three years, far less than the maximum 12 years allowed by law.

Outcry from Human Rights Activists

Usman Hamid, Amnesty International Indonesia’s executive director, expressed frustration with the verdict. He stated, “The verdict protects the institutional integrity of the military and shields the full chain of command and other actors potentially linked to this incident from scrutiny.”

Mr. Hamid labeled the trial “a blatant whitewash” that failed to deliver justice or truth to Mr. Yunus.

Details of the Attack

Mr. Yunus, 27, serves as deputy coordinator of Kontras, a prominent rights group. During the attack, one of the assailants threw acid in his face while he rode his motorbike in Jakarta. The attack burned 24 percent of his body and severely damaged his right eye. Mr. Yunus has been hospitalized since and has undergone multiple surgeries to attempt to save his eye.

Despite his objections, the case moved to a military court in April, led by military prosecutors. Mr. Yunus refused to testify during the proceedings.