Jakarta: A military court in Indonesia has sentenced four soldiers to prison terms of up to three years after they were found guilty of carrying out a premeditated acid attack on a young activist, in a case that has drawn widespread criticism over military accountability and civilian rights.
According to Beyond Time News, the verdict was announced on Wednesday following proceedings that examined the violent attack carried out in March against activist Andrie Yunus, 27. The assault left him blind in one eye and triggered public outrage across the country.
The case has reignited debate in Indonesia over the role of the military in civilian life and the handling of crimes involving armed forces personnel.
Soldiers Found Guilty of Premeditated Assault
The court found four members of Indonesia’s Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) guilty of premeditated assault. The soldiers were identified as Edi Sudarko (45), Budi Hariyanto Widhi Cahyono (43), Nandala Dwi Prasetia (40), and Sami Lakka (41).
Presiding judge Fredy Ferdian Isnartanto stated that the accused engaged in what he described as “arrogant conduct” during the incident. The court concluded that the attack was deliberate and not accidental.
As a result, the defendants were sentenced to prison terms of up to three years depending on their level of involvement in the assault.
Victim Left Partially Blind After Acid Attack
The victim, activist Andrie Yunus, suffered severe injuries in the March attack, including permanent damage that left him blind in one eye. The assault shocked human rights groups and civil society organizations in Indonesia.
According to Beyond Time News, Andrie had been actively involved in protests against what critics describe as increasing militarisation within the government structure.
Following the attack, he was hospitalized and later chose not to attend court hearings. He cited health concerns and a lack of trust in the judicial process as reasons for his absence.
Background to the Attack and Political Tensions
Investigators said the soldiers were allegedly angered after Andrie Yunus and another activist disrupted a parliamentary meeting in 2025. The meeting was related to proposed amendments to Indonesia’s armed forces law.
The amendment, which was passed by parliament last year, expanded the roles of active-duty military personnel. It allowed them to serve in 14 government ministries and state institutions, up from the previous limit of 10.
Critics argue that the change blurs the line between civilian governance and military authority. Supporters, however, claim it improves coordination within government institutions.
Military Claims Independent Action by Soldiers
Military prosecutors stated during the trial that the soldiers acted independently and were not following direct orders. The court accepted this position and treated the case as an individual criminal act rather than an institutional operation.
However, rights groups and observers have questioned this conclusion. They argue that the full chain of responsibility may not have been revealed during the military court proceedings.
According to Beyond Time News, the head of BAIS, Yudi Abrimantyo, resigned after the incident, with officials describing the move as an act of responsibility.
Despite this, critics continue to demand a deeper investigation into whether higher-ranking officials had any role or knowledge of the attack.
Concerns Over Military Court Jurisdiction
The trial has also sparked debate over whether the case should have been handled by a civilian court instead of a military tribunal.
Human rights advocates argue that military courts may lack transparency in cases involving soldiers accused of crimes against civilians. They warn that such systems can lead to limited accountability.
Andrie Yunus and his supporters had earlier requested that the trial be moved to a civilian court. They expressed concerns that a military-led process could result in a cover-up or reduced sentencing.
However, the case proceeded within the military justice system, raising further questions among civil society groups.
Public Reaction and Human Rights Concerns
The verdict has been met with mixed reactions in Indonesia. While some view the sentencing as a step toward accountability, others believe the punishment is too lenient given the severity of the attack.
Human rights organizations have called for stronger protections for activists and journalists who face threats while expressing dissenting views.
According to Beyond Time News, concerns remain that attacks on activists in Indonesia are rarely fully investigated or punished in a transparent manner.
Broader Debate on Militarisation in Indonesia
The case comes amid ongoing debate over the growing influence of the military in Indonesia’s civilian governance structure. The revised armed forces law has allowed greater participation of active-duty officers in government institutions, a move that continues to divide public opinion.
Supporters say the policy improves efficiency and national coordination. Critics, however, argue it risks undermining democratic principles and civilian oversight.
The acid attack case has intensified these discussions, with activists calling for stronger safeguards to protect civil liberties and ensure accountability within state institutions.
Conclusion
The sentencing of four Indonesian soldiers marks a significant but controversial chapter in a case that has highlighted tensions between military authority and civilian rights. While the court has delivered its verdict, questions remain about accountability, transparency, and the broader role of the military in Indonesia’s governance.
As public debate continues, the case is likely to remain a focal point in discussions about justice, human rights, and democratic oversight in the country.
FAQs
Who was involved in the acid attack case in Indonesia?
Four soldiers from Indonesia’s Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) were convicted for the attack on activist Andrie Yunus.
What was the sentence given to the soldiers?
The military court sentenced them to prison terms of up to three years.
What injuries did the victim suffer?
Activist Andrie Yunus was left blind in one eye after the acid attack.
Why is the case controversial?
Critics argue that the case should have been tried in a civilian court and question the transparency of the military justice system.
What sparked the attack?
The soldiers were reportedly angered after activists disrupted a parliamentary meeting on military law reforms.
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