Legal expert praises TNI in acid attack probe

 A legal expert said Indonesia’s military has shown professionalism and adherence to presidential directives in investigating an acid attack on a rights activist, highlighting swift and transparent handling of the case.

Legal scholar Margarito Kamis said the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) acted in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s instruction to fully and clearly resolve the case.

“The response deserves appreciation because the case was uncovered quickly and clearly,” Margarito said in Jakarta on Thursday.'

He said the probe by the Military Police Center (Puspom TNI) underscored the institution’s commitment to addressing alleged violations, including those involving its own personnel.

According to Margarito, the move reflects institutional integrity and willingness to uphold the rule of law despite potential internal involvement.

“In fact, the case was uncovered by the military itself because the suspected perpetrators are also from within,” he said.

He added that the key issue is not which institution led the investigation, but ensuring that suspects are identified and prosecuted under the law.

Margarito stressed that in a democratic state governed by law, professionalism among law enforcement agencies remains paramount.

He said accuracy, speed and firmness in enforcing the law are critical benchmarks that state institutions must meet.

“The most important thing is that institutions carry out their functions professionally, with precision, speed, compliance and firmness in law enforcement,” he said.

He also urged the public to avoid focusing on which body uncovered the case and instead prioritize the substance of law enforcement.

In his view, a state’s success depends on how effectively its institutions act within their legal mandates.

With its swift and transparent actions, the TNI has demonstrated a strong commitment to fair and accountable law enforcement, helping bolster public trust in state institutions.'

Earlier, Puspom TNI detained four military personnel over their alleged involvement in the acid attack against KontraS' rights activist Andrie Yunus.

“All four suspects have been secured at Puspom TNI for further investigation,” Puspom Commander Major General Yusri Nuryanto said in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The four detained personnel, identified by their initials as NDP, SL, BWH and ES, serve at the Strategic Intelligence Agency headquarters detachment.​​​​​​​

Yusri said the motive behind the attack has yet to be determined as the investigation remains ongoing.