Indonesia: Playboy editor-in-chief acquitted
The public prosecutor’s office had accused 42-year-old Erwin Arnada of «causing confusion in society» and «undermining the country’s morals» by publishing obscene material. The prosecutor had sought a prison sentence of up to two years.
The public prosecutor had accused 42-year-old Erwin Arnada of "causing confusion in society" and "damaging the morals of the country" by publishing lewd material. He had demanded up to two years in prison.
Arnada had defended himself by pointing out that no photos of naked women were shown, only women with bare legs and deep cleavage. The charges have now been dismissed on formal legal grounds. It lacked the necessary connection to press law. The public prosecutor's office is considering an appeal.
Meanwhile, according to the SDA report, Muslim demonstrators gathered outside the court, reacting with disappointment to the acquittal. The Front of Islamic Defenders had announced a "war" in the event of an acquittal. Hundreds of police officers were deployed to prevent attacks. However, there were no incidents.
The first issue of Indonesian Playboy was published in April last year. Afterwards, angry Muslims attacked the editorial building in Jakarta. The magazine then moved its headquarters to the Hindu-majority island of Bali.
Arnada had defended himself by pointing out that no photos of naked women were shown, only women with bare legs and deep cleavage. The charges have now been dismissed on formal legal grounds. It lacked the necessary connection to press law. The public prosecutor's office is considering an appeal.
Meanwhile, according to the SDA report, Muslim demonstrators gathered outside the court, reacting with disappointment to the acquittal. The Front of Islamic Defenders had announced a "war" in the event of an acquittal. Hundreds of police officers were deployed to prevent attacks. However, there were no incidents.
The first issue of Indonesian Playboy was published in April last year. Afterwards, angry Muslims attacked the editorial building in Jakarta. The magazine then moved its headquarters to the Hindu-majority island of Bali.
