Jakarta Acid Attack: Police Detail Suspects’ Escape Route & Clothing Change
Acid Attack on Indonesian Activist: Police Detail Suspects’ Escape and Clothing Change
Jakarta – Police are investigating the attempted murder of KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, who was attacked with acid on Jalan Salemba, Central Jakarta on Thursday, March 12th, 2026. Investigators have revealed that the four suspects involved in the acid attack attempted to evade capture by splitting up and, crucially, one suspect changed clothes during their escape.
According to Kombes Iman Imannudin, Director of General Criminal Investigation at the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, the suspects fled the scene on two motorcycles. The first motorcycle, carrying two individuals, took a route against traffic flow on Jalan Salemba towards Pasar Senen, then continued to Jalan Kramat Raya, Tugu Tani, Stasiun Gondangdia, and ultimately towards South Jakarta. The second motorcycle, with the remaining two suspects, proceeded straight on Jalan Pramuka Sari 2, heading towards Matraman, Jatinegara, and eventually onto Jalan Otto Iskandar Dinata in East Jakarta.
Suspects Dispersed Across Greater Jakarta and Bogor
Analysis of CCTV footage, enhanced with digital processing, revealed a key detail in the escape: one of the perpetrators changed their clothing. This suggests a deliberate attempt to alter their appearance and hinder identification. The suspects ultimately dispersed across a wide area, including Kalibata, Ragunan, and even as far as Bogor. Police are currently pursuing all leads and continuing their investigation.
The Investigation and Presidential Directives
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police are committed to a thorough investigation into the attack on Andrie Yunus, according to Kapolda Metro Jaya Irjen Asep Edi Suheri. This commitment stems from direct instructions from President Prabowo Subianto, emphasizing the demand for a transparent and professional handling of the case.
“We are committed to handling this case professionally, transparently, and accountably,” stated Asep Edi Suheri. “These steps are being taken in accordance with the President’s direction and the instructions of the National Police Chief to ensure that all stages are carried out professionally, transparently, and processed to completion.”
Focus on Caution and Verified Information
Authorities are prioritizing caution in their public communications, aiming to avoid the spread of misinformation or speculation. Every piece of information released to the public will be carefully verified before dissemination. “We are prioritizing the principle of caution so that every piece of information conveyed to the public has been verified,” Suheri added.
Background: Andrie Yunus and KontraS
Andrie Yunus is the Deputy Coordinator of KontraS (Komisi untuk Orang Hilang dan Korban Tindak Kekerasan Negara), a human rights organization in Indonesia. KontraS focuses on issues of enforced disappearances and state violence. The organization has been involved in numerous high-profile cases documenting human rights abuses. As reported by Tempo.co English, the attack on Yunus has drawn condemnation from human rights groups and calls for a swift and thorough investigation.
What Remains Unclear
While police have outlined the suspects’ escape routes and confirmed a clothing change, several key details remain unclear. The motive for the attack has not been officially established. The identities of the four suspects are currently unknown, and their connection to any specific groups or individuals has not been publicly disclosed. The type of acid used in the attack, and the extent of Andrie Yunus’s injuries, have not been detailed in available reports. The investigation is ongoing, and further information is expected to emerge as police continue their perform.
International Response
The attack has also garnered international attention. MetroTVNews.com reports that the United Nations (PBB) has responded to the attack, indicating international concern over the safety of human rights defenders in Indonesia.
What Happens Next?
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police will continue to analyze CCTV footage, examine communication records, and pursue all available leads to identify and apprehend the suspects. The investigation will likely involve forensic analysis of the acid used in the attack and interviews with potential witnesses. The case is being treated with high priority, given the severity of the attack and the victim’s prominent role in the human rights community. The police have pledged to provide regular updates to the public as the investigation progresses.