Sedyono et al. fr

Country of proceedings: East Timor (District Court of Dili)
Context of crimes: East Timor
Date: 2003
Keywords: Crimes against humanity (murder, extermination, forced disappearance, torture, deportation, persecution)

Case No.: 14/2003

Court Documents
08-04-2003 - Indictment

Presentation of the case
In 1999, a widespread and systematic attack was perpetrated against the civilian population of East Timor. More than twenty-five militia groups, the Indonesian security authorities (TNI) and the Indonesian police force (POLRI) waged the violence predominantly against the pro-independence population following the decision by Indonesia to allow East Timor to choose between autonomy within the Republic of Indonesia, or independence.

In Sedyono et al., 16 accused are charged with crimes against humanity perpetrated during this period. The Indictment contains 27 counts of crimes against humanity including murder, torture and persecution, committed against the accused, most of whom were senior members of the TNI or POLRI. Colonel Herman Sedyono was Bupati (District Administrator) of Covalima district at the time of the commission of the crimes. All of the charges relate to crimes perpetrated in Covalima district, including the Suai Church Massacre in which up to 200 civilians were killed.

No Final Decision was rendered in the case due to the accused all residing in Indonesia. However, cases against the accused were brought to trial at the Indonesian ad hoc tribunal set up to try Indonesian suspects. In August 2002, the accused were acquitted in separate trials by the tribunal. The tribunal found insufficient proof to convict the accused on the basis of their superior responsibility for the actions of their subordinates. Further, the tribunal found insufficient proof to demonstrate that Sedyono and others were guilty of the Suai Church Massacre. Sedyono had been on trial alongside four other accused also named in the District Court of Dili Indictment.

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