Trans Peruvian Activist Dies in Bali Police Custody, Family Alleges Abuse; Peruvian Ministry Disputes Account
Denpasar, Bali – August 24, 2023 - A peruvian transgender activist, Sebastián Ventosilla, has died while in the custody of Indonesian authorities in bali, sparking allegations of abuse and a diplomatic dispute between Peru and Indonesia. Ventosilla, along with fellow Peruvian national Rodrigo Marallano, where arrested earlier this month, and the circumstances surrounding Ventosilla’s death are under scrutiny.
According to a statement from Ventosilla’s family, he died on August 17th after experiencing alleged torture and extortion while detained. The family alleges that Indonesian authorities targeted Ventosilla and Marallano due to their gender identity.
“We demand a process that determines those responsible for the torture, extortion and violation of human rights that Sebastián suffered and that led to the death of Rodrigo,” said Gianna Camacho, a spokesperson for Ventosilla’s family, in a statement to BuzzFeed News.
Indonesian authorities maintain that the arrests stemmed from drug-related offenses. They claim customs officers discovered pills with a medical prescription, as well as “objects that contained traces of cannabis, as well as various products made with said substance.” Indonesia maintains a “zero-tolerance policy” regarding drugs,and possession of cannabis is considered a serious crime punishable by lengthy imprisonment and ample fines.
The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on august 22nd appearing to support the Indonesian account. The ministry denied allegations of discrimination and anti-trans violence, stating that the arrest was due to a violation of Indonesian drug laws. The ministry also stated that the Peruvian Consulate had been in contact with local authorities to ensure the detainees’ rights were respected.
Though, Ventosilla’s family vehemently rejects the ministry’s statement, calling it “biased” and an “offense against the families.”
Marallano has sence returned to Lima, Camacho confirmed. Ventosilla’s body is expected to arrive in Peru on August 31st.
ventosilla’s death highlights growing concerns about the deteriorating rights of LGBTQ individuals in Indonesia.While same-sex relations are not explicitly illegal,activists report increasing instances of violence and discrimination against the LGBTQ community,often enforced through existing laws. Reports from organizations like CNN, the South China Morning Post, and The Guardian document a pattern of harassment and abuse. Concerns are also rising that legal reforms could further restrict LGBTQ rights.
Indonesia also has notoriously strict drug laws, with foreign nationals previously receiving the death penalty for drug offenses.Authorities advise travelers to carry a doctor’s letter and original prescription for any medication, as international travelers have been detained for possessing medication without proper documentation.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
