Prabowo Vows Thorough Investigation of Acid Attack on KontraS Activist

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has ordered a full investigation into the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, a prominent activist with the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS), labeling the assault an act of “atrocious terrorism.” The directive, issued Thursday, March 19, 2026, calls for the identification of those who perpetrated the attack, as well as those who may have ordered or financed it.

The attack occurred on the evening of March 12, 2026, when Yunus was doused with acid on Jalan Talang, Salemba, in Central Jakarta. He is currently receiving treatment at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM), where a team of six specialists are attending to burns covering 24 percent of his body, according to reports.

“This is terrorism, isn’t it? A barbaric act, we must pursue it, we must investigate it, we must investigate it,” Prabowo stated during a discussion with journalists and observers, as reported by DetikNews and Tempo.co. He emphasized that the investigation must extend beyond the immediate perpetrators to uncover the masterminds behind the attack.

Responding to questions regarding potential involvement of state actors, Prabowo affirmed that no one would be shielded from prosecution, regardless of their affiliation. “Of course. I guarantee it, but conversely. If these provocateurs are not from the government, not from the security apparatus, then we must investigate them as well,” he said, according to DetikNews.

Prabowo further stated his government would not tolerate such violence, adding, “Believe me, I will not allow things like this to happen. Believe me, I was chosen by the people to defend the people, but we must be vigilant. I request that it be investigated thoroughly, right down to the actors.”

The President indicated he would defer to law enforcement agencies regarding a timeline for the investigation, stating, “I am a realistic and fair person, in terms of capacity, let us allow them to work. But not only the police, many other institutions must also work.” He also expressed openness to the formation of an independent investigative team, provided it maintains neutrality, cautioning against the inclusion of organizations he characterized as harboring pre-existing biases against the government or receiving foreign funding.

The case has drawn widespread attention, with calls for a swift and transparent investigation to ensure accountability and prevent future attacks on activists and human rights defenders. Authorities have yet to announce any arrests or identify potential suspects.