Acid Attack Case Underway, Public Urged to Respect Legal Process and Remain Calm
Jakarta – Developments in the handling of the acid attack case against KontraS activist Andrie Yunus signal strongly that the state is present and working through a measured, transparent, and accountable legal process.
Amid heightened public attention, the ongoing proceedings are seen as an important momentum to maintain public trust in law enforcement institutions while ensuring justice is upheld without interference.
Recent information indicates that the investigation has made significant progress, including the designation of four suspects and the deepening of evidence, which has now entered its final stage.
Komnas HAM Commissioner Saurlin P. Siagian emphasized that the institution continues to actively oversee the process after requesting direct clarification from the Indonesian Military (TNI).
“Komnas HAM requested the Head of the Military Police Center to explain how the investigation and inquiry have proceeded from the incident to the present. The Military Police stated that four suspects have been named under Article 469 of the Criminal Code (aggravated assault), with alternative charges under Article 467 paragraphs 1 and 2 (premeditated assault),” said Saurlin.
On the same occasion, Saurlin stressed the importance of transparency as the foundation of the legal process’s legitimacy.
“Komnas HAM encourages transparency in law enforcement, including promptly announcing the identities of the perpetrators to the public, involving external oversight in the process, and granting Komnas HAM access to meet and obtain statements from the suspects,” he added.
This statement reflects that checks and balances mechanisms are functioning, allowing the public to continue monitoring developments without being drawn into speculation that could disrupt the investigation.
From the military side, the Head of the TNI Military Police Center, Major General Yusri Nuryanto, previously assured that the case is being handled seriously and progressively. The designation of four active-duty soldiers as suspects demonstrates that the institution does not tolerate unlawful acts by anyone.
“The four suspected individuals have now been secured at the Military Police Center for further investigation,” said Yusri.
This firm action also highlights an ongoing commitment to internal reform, where every alleged violation is processed according to applicable regulations and is not allowed to become a prolonged institutional burden.
Legal practitioner Fransiscus Xaverius Tangkudung also reminded the public of the importance of maturity in responding to the legal forum being used.
“If the alleged perpetrators are active-duty soldiers, then the jurisdiction of the military court is not a choice, but a legal requirement,” he explained.
He emphasized that the primary focus should be on the substance of law enforcement, rather than debating mechanisms that already have a strong legal basis within the national judicial system.
In line with this, recent developments also show broad encouragement for the process to remain open and credible, including from Komnas HAM and various civil society elements that have called for the investigation results to be disclosed gradually. This dynamic reflects a healthy democracy, where the state provides space for public oversight while ensuring the process remains within lawful boundaries.
Amid significant public attention, the most appropriate stance is to respect the ongoing legal process and maintain a conducive environment. The swift, transparent, and accountable actions demonstrated by the government and law enforcement authorities serve as clear evidence of the state’s strong commitment to upholding justice while reinforcing public trust in the current administration.
