Yahya Bonay was the first of five men arrested in relation to a fatal attack on police Mobiles Brigade (Brimob) officer Jefri Sesa. On 27 April 2013, just three hours after the attack at 05:00, police officers arrived at Bonay’s residence in two trucks. They ransacked the house and allegedly tortured Bonay on arrest. Police reportedly accused him of the murder of Jefri Sesa, contrary to information provided by Bonay’s wife who claims that he was at home with her at the time of the incident. Local activists also claim that Bonay suffered torture in detention in Serui Regional police station where he currently remains. He is reportedly facing charges of treason.
Correspondence from a local source states that the arrest and alleged torture of Astro Kaaba, Hans Arrongear, Musa Samai and Luis Samai are also linked with the death of Jefri Sesa. Kaaba and Arrongear remain in detention in Serui Regional police station, while Musa Samai and Luis Samai were released after being severely tortured.
It is believed that Bonay, Arrongear and Kaaba have since been released from detention.
Sources
Report received by a local source entitled “Update Informasi Situasi Yapen,” 24 May 2013
Email correspondence from a local human rights activist, 9 May 2013
Report by a local human rights activist, 4 May 2013
Report received by a local human rights activist, 30 April 2013
