Komnas HAM Receives 151 Torture Complaints in the Last Two Years

The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has stated that the practice of torture remains a serious problem in Indonesia, marking the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture on 26 June 2026. Komnas HAM Chairperson Anis Hidayah said that during the period from January 2024 to May 2026, the commission received and followed up on 151 complaints related to torture. “Cases of torture continue to exist in various forms. We find that torture practices still occur during police interrogation processes, due to overcrowding in detention rooms, negligence in legal assistance, and sexual violence against women during their detention period,” Anis said. Anis detailed that the majority of victims came from individual groups, detainees, and the public. Based on Komnas HAM’s classification, of the 151 complaints, the victims consisted of 71 adult men, 1 woman, 4 children, 2 migrant workers, 11 workers, 1 victim of gross human rights violations, 1 elderly person, 5 convicts, and 20 detainees. One of the cases handled by Komnas HAM in 2026 was the torture of Andrie Yunus, a KontraS activist. The victim suffered an acid attack which resulted in severe injuries. “One of them is his eye, where he suffered damage to 20-24 percent of his face, eyes, chest, and hands due to the acid attack,” Anis revealed. Komnas HAM also noted that torture practices were found during protest rallies in August–September 2025. On the occasion of the Day Against Torture, Komnas HAM called for a commitment from all stakeholders to stop the practice. In addition, Komnas HAM highlighted a case of femicide violence against a woman in Bandung allegedly committed by Taufik Hidayat. Anis stressed that women’s human rights are an integral part of human rights. “Of course, the case experienced by the victim in Bandung is a human rights violation and we are providing oversight,” Anis said. Komnas HAM appreciated the steps taken by Komnas Perempuan and the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) in handling the case. Anis urged that the legal process be carried out professionally, accountably, and transparently so that the perpetrator receives a punishment commensurate with the laws and regulations. Furthermore, Anis emphasised the importance of comprehensive victim recovery, covering medical, psychological, and social reintegration aspects.