JAKARTA - Indonesian military prosecutors charged four officers on April 29 for their alleged involvement in an acid attack on an activist known for campaigning against the expanding public role of the armed forces. The trial began at a military court in Jakarta, with prosecutors seeking a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison.
The victim, Haris Satria, is a prominent activist who has criticized the military's involvement in civilian affairs. He was attacked with acid in September 2025, suffering severe burns to his face and body. The attack drew widespread condemnation from human rights groups and civil society organizations.
The four defendants, all members of the Indonesian military, face charges under the military criminal code. Prosecutors allege they orchestrated the attack in retaliation for Satria's activism. The trial is expected to continue over several weeks, with witnesses including medical experts and forensic analysts.
Human rights groups have called for a transparent trial, noting that military courts in Indonesia have historically been lenient on soldiers accused of crimes against civilians. The case has reignited debates about the military's dual function in Indonesian society, where it retains a formal role in politics and business despite reforms after the fall of Suharto.
