An independent inquiry by six state-affiliated rights bodies found widespread abuses by security forces during August 2024 anti-government protests in Indonesia. More than 5,000 people were detained; many detainees reported beatings, electric shocks and chilli paste smeared on their faces. The investigation also alleges sexual abuse of some female minors and documents repeated patterns of arbitrary arrest, torture and intimidation. Rights bodies have urged a full police probe and presidential review.
Indonesian Rights Bodies Report Widespread Abuses During August 2024 Protests, Including Alleged Sexual Abuse of Minors
FILE PHOTO: Armed Indonesian military troops march at National Monument (Monas) complex as they prepare for deployment amid the widespread anti-government protests and rioting over issues such as extra pay for parliamentarians and housing allowances led by student group that resulted into riots rocked Southeast Asia's largest economy, in Jakarta, Indonesia, August 31, 2025. REUTERS/Willy Kurniawan/File Photo
An independent, four-month investigation led by six state-affiliated Indonesian rights bodies found widespread human rights violations by security forces during nationwide anti-government protests in August 2024, including allegations of sexual abuse of some female minors.
The joint report, released this week, said more than 5,000 people were detained in the unrest that erupted after police fatally struck a motorcycle taxi driver. Eleven people died as riots spread, with some officials' homes and government buildings looted or ransacked — the worst outbreak of civil violence in Indonesia in around two decades.
Findings of Mistreatment
The report documents a recurring pattern of arbitrary arrests, unlawful detention, torture and inhumane treatment. Many detainees reported being beaten or given electric shocks. Investigators also recorded repeated use of chilli paste smeared on detainees' faces to produce burning pain and intimidation with firearms during interrogations.
"There are indications of widespread and massive human rights violations," said Saurlin Siagian of the National Human Rights Commission, summarizing the probe's findings.
Allegations Involving Minors
Officials from the child protection agency said the investigation uncovered acts of violence against protesters under 18, including allegations that some female minors were sexually abused by law enforcers. The agency did not provide victim counts or detailed descriptions in the public summary.
Calls For Accountability
The six rights bodies urged President Prabowo Subianto to evaluate police handling of the protests and called on the national police to conduct a thorough, impartial investigation into the report's findings. The President's Office and national police did not immediately comment when contacted about the report.
To date, no senior officials have faced public disciplinary action. The report notes that one low-level officer was dismissed after running over and killing a motorcyclist and another officer was demoted.
This report builds on eyewitness testimony and official inquiries, and it seeks independent follow-up to ensure accountability and prevent future abuses.
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