Activist Attacked with Acid in Jakarta

0:00Sydney's story's making news on March 14, a prominent Indonesian human rights activist named Andre Yunus was attacked with acid on a Jakarta street late Thursday night. The assault left him with serious burns covering 24% of his body, mainly on his hands, face, chest, and near his eyes. CCTV footage shows two men on a motorcycle pulling up and throwing the substance at him while he rode his own bike. Yunus had just wrapped up recording a podcast on remilitarism and judicial issues at a legal aid office in central Jakarta. Bystanders quickly helped him before he got rushed to the hospital for treatment. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights voiced deep concern about the attack. Groups like his organization Contra Es condemned it as an effort to silence defenders who speak out on power abuses and shrinking civil freedoms. They pointed out he had faced suspicious calls and threats in the days before. As deputy external affairs coordinator for Contra Es, Yunus has long highlighted human rights problems tied to Indonesia's past under authoritarian rule.

1:02Police are now on the case, securing the scene and questioning two witnesses so far. Officials say the top brass is watching closely and urge anyone with info to come forward, promising full protection, and a serious push to catch those. Responsible. Thanks to our sponsor for helping bring you this episode, your pillow, your podcast, your moment made for listening in bed, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com.