*) By: Yosephine Bonay
In an effort to maintain security stability and regional sovereignty, security forces have again carried out a large-scale operation against the separatist group Free Papua Organization (OPM). Last week, a joint operation involving the TNI and Polri succeeded in raiding one of the OPM headquarters in the West Papua region. This step was taken as part of a strategy to narrow the group’s space and reduce activities that threaten national security.
Dansatgas Yonif/133 YS, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Andhika Ganessakti said troops ambushed the OPM camp in the customary forest area. A number of OPM members under the leadership of Manfred Fatem were also arrested along with a number of pieces of evidence ranging from Morning Star flags, rifles, bows, to food and medicine. The headquarters was destroyed so that it would no longer be used and would become a threat to the people of Maybrat.
The latest raid on the OPM headquarters was carried out with careful preparation and tight coordination between various TNI and Polri units. This operation involved intensive intelligence monitoring to confirm the presence and activities of OPM members at the location. After receiving accurate information, security forces moved quickly to surround and raid the base. The success of this operation was considered a major blow to the OPM, considering that the headquarters that was raided was one of their strategic activity centers.
The raid on the OPM headquarters had several significant impacts on the security situation in Papua. First, this operation succeeded in narrowing the OPM’s space, reducing their ability to carry out acts of violence and sabotage. With the arrest of several members and confiscation of weapons, OPM’s operational strength was reduced.
The success of this operation sends a strong signal to other separatist groups that the security forces are ready and able to take firm action against any activity that threatens the security and sovereignty of the country. It is hoped that this will reduce the spirit of resistance and reduce acts of violence in the future.
Crackdown on OPM helps restore security in conflict-affected areas. This provides protection for local residents and allows them to live their daily lives without the threat of violence. This achievement also increases the sense of security for civilians who often feel threatened by the presence and activities of the OPM. With the success of this operation, it is hoped that residents can live their daily lives more calmly and focus on productive activities. The success of this raid cannot be separated from the dedication and courage of the security forces. This operation shows that the TNI and Polri have adequate capabilities in dealing with the threat of separatism. This success is also clear evidence that the security forces work tirelessly to maintain national stability and security.
Head of the Cartenz Peace Operations Public Relations Task Force, AKBP Bayu Suseno, said that although this raid operation was successful, the challenges in maintaining security and stability in Papua were still large. The difficult geographical conditions and vast territory of Papua make security operations complex and challenging. Apart from that, the support and sympathy of some people towards OPM is also a factor that needs to be considered. By eliminating armed groups such as OPM, security forces play a role in protecting the human rights of local residents from violence, intimidation and other violations that can be committed by armed groups.
To face this challenge, it is necessary to continue to improve capabilities and coordination in carrying out security operations. The use of advanced technology in monitoring and reconnaissance also needs to be increased to obtain more accurate and faster information.
Apart from the military approach, other strategies that need to be strengthened are the humanist approach and dialogue. The government continues to build communication with the Papuan people, listen to their aspirations, and look for peaceful solutions that can end the conflict. Increasing welfare through infrastructure development, education and health is also an important step in reducing support for separatist groups.
The traditional leader of Kampung Sereh (Ondofolo), Yanto Eluay, said that his party strongly opposes the existence of the OPM. OPM only divides society, raises concerns, and even hinders people from carrying out their activities. The attitude of the Papuan people is clear that the region is an integral part of Indonesia. Any attempt to separate Papua from Indonesia is an act that violates the constitution and is contrary to the basic principles of the country. Therefore, the public is advised to fully support the security forces in taking firm action against all forms of separatist activities on Earth of Cenderawasih. Apart from that, distance yourself from all forms of provocation and actions that could damage unity.
In conclusion, the raid on the OPM headquarters by Indonesian security forces was a strategic step in an effort to narrow the space for separatist groups and maintain security stability in Papua. The success of this operation had a positive impact in reducing the threat of violence and increasing the sense of security in the community. However, the challenges in maintaining security in Papua are still large and require a comprehensive approach, both through measured military operations and through dialogue and sustainable development. With good cooperation between the government, security forces and the community, it is hoped that peace and prosperity in Papua can be realized in a sustainable manner.
*) The author is a Papuan student living in Makassar
