Indonesian police on Thursday declared the editor-in-chief of a prominent English-language daily newspaper a suspect in a blasphemy case over the publication of a caricature purporting to criticize violence inflicted in Iraq by a jihadist group known as the Islamic State.
Jakarta Police Spokesman Rikwanto told reporters that The Jakarta Post Chief Editor Meidyatama Suryodiningrat, 47, was named a suspect, citing witness testimonies and evidence, for his responsibility over all products of the Post.
The chief editor issued a statement late Thursday, saying the newspaper did not commit a criminal act as accused, while a journalists' group said the case threatens the country's press freedom.