UGM Says Student Protesters Were Targeted in Suspected Political Thuggery

Six students were assaulted during a civil society protest in Yogyakarta, according to Universitas Gadjah Mada, which condemned what it described as suspected political thuggery and called for accountability.

The protest, organized by the Civil Society Alliance at the Gramedia intersection, had remained peaceful since the afternoon of September 1 before violence erupted at about 10 p.m. UGM said an unidentified group, allegedly linked to a mass organization, provoked the unrest.

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Six students, consisting of five UGM students and one UNY student, were victims of assault and had to be taken to Panti Rapih Hospital.

Hempri Suyatna, UGM’s director of student affairs, said five UGM students and one student from Yogyakarta State University were taken to Panti Rapih Hospital. The students were later allowed to return home after receiving treatment for physical injuries and trauma.

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The students were not being anarchic or causing trouble, but they were pushed back through violent actions.

“The students were not being anarchic or causing trouble, but they were pushed back through violent actions,” Hempri said. He added that some students were struck in the temple, while others were kicked in the arms and legs.

UGM Vice Rector Arie Sujito said police officers at the scene should have protected the students and the public. He said the students had joined the protest to express concerns about Indonesia’s economic and political situation. The university is collecting information and evidence as it prepares possible legal action. “Whoever committed the violence must be held accountable,” Arie said.

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Whoever committed the violence must be held accountable.