Novel Baswedan Praises National Police Investigation into Acid Attack on KontraS Activist
Former senior KPK investigator Novel Baswedan has expressed appreciation for the National Police’s investigation into the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Vice Coordinator of the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS). Baswedan urged that the masterminds behind the attack be brought to light.
“I have received information that the National Police has already taken several investigative steps, which we naturally appreciate. Similarly, RSCM (Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital) has provided excellent medical services,” Baswedan stated at a press conference alongside a civil society coalition on Friday, 13 March 2026.
Baswedan stressed that the investigation must be comprehensive. He emphasised that the intellectual architects of the case must face severe punishment.
“All those involved must be investigated, the intellectual actors must be identified, reached, and held to account heavily,” he stated.
“I also urge the President to pay attention to this matter and provide support to the National Police so they can conduct a thorough investigation and ensure all perpetrators receive the heaviest possible sentences,” Baswedan added.
He characterised the acid attack on Andrie as extremely vicious, noting that the perpetrators intended to kill the victim.
“He was attacked with the intention to kill. Why? The perpetrator poured acid on his face area. If acid hits the face area, it could likely cause respiratory failure and death,” he explained.
He also noted that the perpetrators acted in an organised manner. Baswedan reiterated that the attack on Andrie was extremely brutal.
“The perpetrators were not merely two people on one motorcycle. There were coordinated signals employed in the field, so the attack was highly organised. This was a planned attack. They are extremely evil and barbaric,” he said.
The National Police guaranteed that the case would be thoroughly investigated. Police have reviewed CCTV footage and questioned several witnesses.
“On this occasion, what we need to convey is that the National Police Chief has given special attention to the handling and resolution of this case,” said the Police Public Relations Division Chief, Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir at National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta on Friday, 13 March 2026.
Isir stated that the case is being handled by the Central Jakarta Metro Police. He noted that the Jakarta Metro Police Regional Command and the Criminal Investigation Command are providing support to accelerate case resolution.
“Further, to follow up on the attention and instructions from the National Police Chief, the handling by the Criminal Investigation Unit of Central Jakarta Metro Police is backed by both the Jakarta Metro Police Regional Command and the Criminal Investigation Command, and colleagues at National Police Headquarters,” Isir stated.
“The National Police also ensures that the investigation and prosecution process, as part of law enforcement, is conducted on a scientific basis,” he added.