Jakarta – The National Police has not changed its old violent culture as it has maintained the use of torture to obtain confessions from suspects during interrogation, a police watchdog says.

Indonesia Police Watch chairman Neta S Pane said Wednesday torture was rampantly used by police detectives across the country despite the force's pledge for internal reform.

"We have often received reports from members of the public who fell victim to torture when they underwent police questioning," Neta was quoted by Antara.

He added that he had just received a complaint from a 60-year-old man who faced intimidation during his questioning in connection with a deception case, which actually falls under the civil rather than criminal code. "The torture can take shape in psychological pressures," Neta said.

He urged National Police Chief Gen. Bambang Hendarso Danuri to take more initiatives in eradicating the violent culture.

The absence of action in response to reports of torture during questioning indicates a lack of support from the police leadership for the worldwide campaign against use of torture, Neta added.

United Nations rapporteur had revealed the rampant use of torture by police detectives in Indonesia, but the National Police had played it down.