Andrie Yunus Acid Attack Case Allegedly Involves TNI's Bais, Deputy Chairman of Commission I: Serious Threat to Democracy

Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the PKS faction, Sukamta, has responded to developments in the case of the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, which is suspected to involve rogue TNI members. He views the violence against the activist as a threat to democracy.

Based on circulating information, the Indonesian National Army through the Military Police Centre (Puspom) has secured and detained four TNI members suspected of involvement in the incident, with ongoing deepening of motives and further investigation processes.

This member of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the DI Yogyakarta electoral district emphasised that acts of violence, especially using acid against a civilian activist, constitute a serious violation of human rights principles and cannot be tolerated in a democratic state.

“This incident is not just an ordinary criminal act, but also a threat to civil liberties and democratic space. The state must not succumb to such violent practices,” Sukamta asserted firmly.

Furthermore, this Deputy Chairman of the PKS Faction in the Polhukam sector urged that the legal process be conducted transparently, professionally, and accountably. He requested that there be no efforts to cover up the case, and that all perpetrators, both executors and those suspected as intellectual actors, be revealed openly.

“We in Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives will monitor this case seriously. Law enforcement must reach to the root, including if there are parties who ordered or planned the action,” he stated.

Sukamta emphasised the importance of internal evaluation within the TNI to ensure professionalism and maintain public trust in the national defence institution.

“The TNI is an institution highly respected by the people. Therefore, every violation by rogues must be firmly addressed so as not to damage public trust in the institution as a whole.”

In addition, Sukamta reminded that protection for activists and human rights defenders is part of the state’s constitutional commitment.

“Human rights activists are an important pillar in safeguarding democracy. The state is obliged to provide protection, not become a source of threat.”

Sukamta asked all parties to monitor this case objectively and avoid speculations that could muddy the situation, while ensuring justice for the victim is upheld.