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Independent journalist attacked

Source
Human Rights Defender - July 24, 1997

The International Secretariat has been informed by a reliable source of the grave concern that exists for the physical and psychological integrity of Andreas Harsono who was involved with the establishment of an Independent Journalists Association in Indonesia (although he is not currently active). He works as a freelance journalist for the Nation, a Bangkok based daily and the daily Internet newspaper, "The American Reporter".

According to the information received, Mr Harsono was driving home on the 21st July 1997, after attending an opening of an exhibition. The incident apparently occurred around 8:45 p.m. While Mr Harsono was driving home on the Jalan Utan Kayu (a major road) he turned on to a by pass to a toll road. A white car began to drive slowly in front of Mr Harsono's car and prevented him from overtaking. At about 20 meters from the toll the white car stopped and two men on a motorbike appeared, dismounted and ran towards Mr Harsono's car armed with hammers.

The information states that as they approached they shouted "here he is "[literal translation] in Indonesian. They broke the windshield and then apparently began to try to force the doors open. Mr Harsono managed to drive to the toll booth and informed a police officer who was standing guard. The perpetrators had disappeared by the time the officer was able to react.

According to the information the reasons behind the incident are unknown, however it is feared that the action may be related to his earlier union activity or his writing.

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