GSF Volunteer Rahendro Heru Bowo Undergoes Intensive Observation Following Return to Indonesia

JAKARTA — Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) 2.0 volunteer Rahendro Heru Bowo is undergoing intensive observation at Premier Jatinegara Hospital in East Jakarta following his repatriation to Indonesia. His family stated he is experiencing various health complaints requiring immediate medical attention upon arrival.

Saldy Sasmita, Heru’s brother, said he was taken to the emergency department upon arrival in Jakarta. Doctors are currently conducting a series of tests to determine his condition.

“Heru is now in the hospital. He is still under observation, with MRI and CT scans being performed,” Saldy told Republika on Monday, 25 May 2026.

He added that blood samples were taken at the emergency department for further tests, but the family has not yet received the full medical results.

“Blood was drawn immediately at the emergency department. He has many complaints,” Saldy said.

He did not specify the nature of Heru’s symptoms, stating the family is waiting for updates from the medical team.

Saldy expressed the family’s hope for Heru’s quick recovery and return to normal activities. “The priority is for my brother to recover and resume normal activities,” he said.

Regarding medical costs and technical handling, Saldy said he was unaware of the details, as GPCI is managing the repatriation process.

Meanwhile, Rahendro Heru Bowo reported experiencing physical violence on various parts of his body. He claimed to have been tortured during a two-day, three-night detention on the ship. He and other volunteers faced physical and psychological pressure while detained.

“While being held and moved between compartments, we were subjected to stun grenades. The explosions were extremely loud and caused psychological stress,” he said on Sunday, 24 May 2026.

He stated detainees were forced to keep their heads down during transfers; lifting the head would result in physical assault.

“We had to keep our heads down; no lifting allowed. If we raised our heads, we were kicked and punched,” he said.

Heru also described a special room he referred to as an execution chamber or punishment area. He claimed to have been stepped on by Israeli soldiers and subjected to electric shocks.

“They prepared a special execution room. Whenever we moved between rooms, there was this special chamber where we were beaten and kicked. I fell and was stepped on,” he said.

“I was also shocked multiple times on my body, legs, and back. That’s roughly what happened,” he added.