Dimas Bagus Arya, coordinator of KontraS’ executive board, said the assault represented a serious act of violence against a human rights defender requiring a thorough investigation.
“This incident is an attempt to silence critical voices in society, especially human rights defenders,” Dimas said in a written statement released in Jakarta on Friday.
He said Yunus was attacked on Thursday (March 12, 2026) evening by unidentified assailants who splashed acid on him, causing burns to his hands and legs and impairing his vision.
The attack occurred shortly after Yunus finished recording a podcast at the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) office discussing militarism and a judicial review of the military law.
Initial information indicated that at about 11:37 p.m. local time Yunus was riding a motorcycle on Salemba I Street in Central Jakarta.
Two attackers on another motorcycle approached the victim, threw acid at him and quickly fled the scene, according to preliminary accounts gathered by the organization.
Suffering burns
Yunus suffered burns on about 24 percent of his body and was rushed to hospital for emergency treatment.
Doctors focused particularly on injuries to his eyes, which were exposed to the chemical liquid during the attack.
KontraS believes the assault was linked to Yunus’ work advocating human rights issues and criticizing militarism in Indonesia.
“The victim previously faced repeated intimidation and threats,” Dimas said, particularly after the “Fairmount protest” opposing a draft military law in March 2025.
The organization said the acid attack should alarm authorities because it could endanger human rights defenders working in Indonesia.
“This case requires broad attention from law enforcement agencies and civil society,” Dimas said.
Police must swiftly investigate the perpetrators and uncover the motives behind the assault, he added.
KontraS also argued the acid attack could be classified as attempted murder because of its potentially fatal consequences.
“The use of acid indicates serious malicious intent that could lead to the victim’s death,” Dimas said.
The group stressed the state’s obligation to protect human rights defenders under Indonesia’s 1999 Human Rights Law.
It therefore urged law enforcement authorities to solve the case quickly and ensure stronger protection for rights activists.
Given special attention
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has given special attention to the case, police said.
Police spokesperson Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir said the chief ordered investigators to prioritize solving the attack.
Officers have secured the crime scene and launched an initial investigation into the assault, he added.
The probe follows Police Report Model A Number 222/III/2026 concerning alleged aggravated assault under Articles 467(2) and 468(1) of Indonesia’s criminal code.
Investigators from Jakarta police headquarters and the national criminal investigation unit are assisting the Central Jakarta police team.
Police are questioning witnesses and said the investigation will rely on scientific methods and forensic analysis.
Johnny also urged members of the public with information about the incident to contact police.
“We will ensure protection for citizens who provide information,” he said.
He also expressed hopes that Yunus would recover quickly and that investigators would soon identify and arrest the attackers.
Related news: Parliament guarantees civil supremacy in military law revisions
Translator: Devi NSR, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
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