Indonesian Police Accused of Extrajudicial Killings and Violence
Allegations of Impunity
Rights groups have long accused Indonesian security forces of operating in a culture of impunity. According to recent reports, Indonesian police have been involved in dozens of extrajudicial killings, resulting in the deaths of 31 people.
Amnesty International Records
Amnesty International Indonesia has recorded at least 116 cases of alleged police violence between January and November this year, including 29 cases of extrajudicial killings resulting in 31 fatalities. These cases include torture, improper use of tear gas, and arbitrary arrests.
Recent Cases
One recent case involved a police officer who allegedly shot and killed a student in Semarang, Central Java, in late November. The officer has been detained in connection with the case, which garnered national attention.
Police Reform
Cases of police violence indicate a lack of progress in police reforms, according to Amnesty International Indonesia’s executive director, Usman Hamid. "If added with a series of police violence widely discussed by the public, it is clear that this year, 2024, does not show any improvement in the police’s system," Hamid said.
Consequences of Police Violence
Amnesty International also recorded 28 cases of intimidation and physical violence, as well as 26 cases of torture. More than 500 people were subjected to police violence, including arbitrary arrest, physical violence, and improper use of tear gas, during demonstrations against changes to election rules in 14 cities across the archipelago between August 22 and 29.
Authoritarian-Repressive Policing
"This showed how policing currently becomes authoritarian-repressive, not democratic-humanist policing as promised or mandated by law," Hamid said.
Conclusion
The allegations of extrajudicial killings and violence are a stark reminder of the need for systemic reform of the Indonesian police. Amnesty International’s findings highlight the lack of accountability and transparency within the police force and the need for greater human rights protections.
FAQs
- What were the allegations against the Indonesian police?
- Allegations of extrajudicial killings, torture, improper use of tear gas, and arbitrary arrests.
- How many cases were recorded by Amnesty International Indonesia?
- At least 116 cases of alleged police violence between January and November 2024.
- How many people were subjected to police violence?
- More than 500 people, including arbitrary arrest, physical violence, and improper use of tear gas.
- What are the consequences of police violence?
- The culture of impunity and lack of accountability within the police force, as well as violations of human rights.