TNI BAIS Chief Removed Over Acid Attack Case on Andrie Yunus

Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) headquarters has confirmed that Lieutenant General Yudi Abrimantyo, head of the Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS), has handed over his position. Head of TNI’s Information Centre, Major General Aulia Dwi Nasrullah, stated that the leadership change at BAIS TNI stems from the acid attack case against human rights activist Andrie Yunus. “As a form of accountability, today the handover of the BAIS chief’s position has been carried out,” said Dwi Nasrullah at TNI headquarters in Cilangkap, East Jakarta, on Wednesday, 25 March 2026. The two-star general did not provide further details on the BAIS TNI leadership change, including who will replace Yudi. Yudi Abrimantyo has served as BAIS TNI chief since March 2024. He is a 1989 Military Academy graduate and joined the infantry as commander of the Special Forces (Kopassus). Previously, Andrie Yunus, who frequently criticised the TNI Law and the expansion of military roles in civilian domains, was doused with acid while on Jalan Salemba I-Talang, Central Jakarta, on Thursday night, 12 March 2026. Andrie was targeted with a dangerous solution by two unidentified individuals on a motorcycle approaching from the opposite direction. The corrosive chemical liquid affected the right side of Andrie’s body, including his eye, face, chest, and hand. Part of the victim’s clothing also melted due to the acid. Medical examinations revealed that Andrie suffered serious burns covering 24 percent of his body. He is currently receiving treatment at the National Central General Hospital Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo (RSCM). Police and TNI have differing investigation results regarding the alleged perpetrators. Metro Jaya Police stated there are two suspects with initials BHC and MAK. Meanwhile, TNI revealed four alleged perpetrators involved in the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, including Captain NDP, First Lieutenant SL, First Lieutenant BHW, and Second Sergeant ES. The TNI Military Police Centre claims the four suspects have been detained since Wednesday, 18 March 2026. TNI Information Centre Head Aulia stated that the investigation into the acid attack on this Kontras deputy coordinator is still ongoing. “Please wait until the entire investigation process by TNI Military Police investigators is completed,” said Aulia in a previous statement.