Mar 19, Kathmandu - Indonesian officials have detained four soldiers suspected of involvement in an acid attack on human rights activist Andre Yunus, authorities announced today. The soldiers are reportedly linked to intelligence agencies, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.

The attack targeted Andre Yunus, a prominent rights organization investigator associated with KontraS, last week while he was riding his motorcycle. Two unidentified individuals threw acid at him, resulting in burns covering more than 20% of his body. The assault caused severe injuries to his face, hands, chest, and eyes, according to reports from the hospital where he was admitted.

Before the attack, Yunus had recorded a podcast criticizing the military’s increasing political role. The incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage across the nation. Over the weekend, protests were held in various locations to show solidarity with the victim. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed deep concern over the attack. Meanwhile, Kontras condemned the incident as an attempt to silence critical voices.

Human rights advocates are calling for the formation of an independent inquiry committee, and although the president has not issued a direct response, his spokesperson assured that a fair, transparent, and swift investigation has been ordered.

Andre Yunus is known as a fierce critic of Indonesia’s military law amendments, which expand military influence in civilian affairs. In recent months, he has also been investigating violence related to protests against the government. Before the attack, Yunus received threatening calls from unknown numbers and faced other intimidating activities.

The incident has once again raised alarms about the safety of human rights defenders in Indonesia.