Human rights defenders have reportedly been arrested in Aceh in Indonesia. On 22 February 2004 at approximately 12.30, Iwan Irama Putra was reportedly arrested by Brimob at a friend's home in Banda Aceh, and has not been seen since. Early on 23 February 2004, police allegedly made a series of raids on the homes of members of ORPAD. At approximately 4.00, it is reported that they detained Ms. Harlina at her home, beat her and then took her away in a Kijang minivan. She was last seen approximately two hours later, when police took her with them to the house of another activist, who was reportedly not at home at the time.

In addition, according to the information received, on 23 February 2004 at approximately 6.00, Nursida was arrested at her home, together with Nova Rahayu. They were reportedly taken away in two trucks. They were subsequently released on 24th February and in their testimony said that Mr. Masrizal (who had been detained on 19th February), Mr. Iwan Irama Putra and Ms. Harlina had been tortured in detention. Mr. Masrizal reportedly remains in detention.

Also on 23 February 2004 at approximately 5.00, police reportedly arrived at the student dormitory looking for Syafruddin. It is reported that having failed to find him, they questioned and beat other residents of the dormitory. It is further reported that on Syafruddin’s return to the dormitory a few hours later, he was beaten before being taken away by the police. He has now been released.

Iwan Irama Putra and Mr. Masrizal are members of the Network of Linge Students (IMPEL), based in Central Aceh District, whose work has included providing assistance to internally displaced people. Harlina is a member of IMPEL and the Acehnese Democratic Women’s Organization (ORPAD), which carries out activities for women’s education and empowerment throughout Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam.

Front Line is concerned that Mr. Masrizal, Iwan Irama Putra, Harlina, Nova Rahayu, Nursida and Syafruddin were arrested solely for their peaceful expression of their political beliefs, and their work in defence of human rights. This concern is heightened by reports that the local military commander has warned members of ORPAD that they will be targeted for arrest.