Gusdurian Condemns Acid Attack Terrorism Against Activist Andrie Yunus
The Gusdurian Network has condemned the acid attack and terrorism against KontraS activist Andrie Yunus.
“We strongly condemn the attack and terrorism against Andrie Yunus. Terrorism against society, particularly using violent methods, is a form of suppressing criticism and freedom of expression,” stated Gusdurian Network Director Alissa Wahid in a statement on Thursday, 17 March.
Alissa also urged President Prabowo to guarantee freedom of expression and protect every citizen from various forms of threats by thoroughly investigating this case in accordance with justice principles.
She stated that allowing the suppression of freedom of expression, particularly through violent means, would increasingly narrow democratic space in Indonesia.
“We demand law enforcement authorities to thoroughly investigate this case until they find the main perpetrator, and to punish those responsible through a transparent process that serves justice,” she said.
Alissa also called on all segments of society to continue monitoring this case, as terrorism against rights defenders is ultimately terrorism against society as a whole.
Andrie became a victim of an attack by an unidentified assailant who threw acid on him on Friday night, 13 March. The acid attack resulted in injuries to his hands and feet as well as vision impairment.
Andrie was immediately taken to hospital for medical treatment. From medical examination results, Andrie was found to have suffered 24 percent burns.
Separately, National Police Chief General Sigit Listyo affirmed the police’s commitment to resolving the acid attack case. Listyo stated he had received a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto to investigate the case.
“Regarding developments in the activist attack, I have received a direct order from the President to conduct a thorough and professional investigation with transparency,” said General Sigit to reporters whilst inspecting Lebaran holiday traffic at Gubeng Train Station in Surabaya, East Java, on Sunday.
Listyo said he would use scientific methods to uncover this case. Information gathering continues to be conducted by teams in the field.