At Least 10 Dead in Indonesia Protests, Rights Groups Report

TDT | Manama

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At least 10 people were killed during violent protests in Indonesia last week, according to human rights groups. The unrest, which spread to several cities, was the most serious wave of demonstrations since President Prabowo Subianto took office last year.

The protests began over anger at economic inequality and reports of lavish perks for lawmakers. Tensions grew further after video footage showed a young driver being killed by a paramilitary unit, sparking outrage against the police.

The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) said it had received reports of 10 deaths in areas including Greater Jakarta, Central Java, Makassar in South Sulawesi, and Papua. The group added that some victims may have died due to excessive force by authorities.

Komnas HAM also reported more than 900 injuries and thousands of arrests, although many detainees have since been released. “Many areas have not yet reported their findings, so the numbers could rise,” said Anis Hidayah, head of the commission.

Other organisations, including the Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) and Amnesty International Indonesia, confirmed the same death toll and urged the government to launch an independent investigation. Meanwhile, the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS) said at least 20 people remain missing.

The protests forced President Subianto to backtrack on plans to grant perks to legislators, as unrest continues to highlight frustration over inequality and governance in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.