OPM Violence Continues to Threaten Society, Support Government and Security Forces to Take Firm Action
By: Isak Wambai
The violence carried out by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) continues to threaten the peace and security of the Papuan people. The community supports the Government and security forces to immediately take firm steps to stop the brutal actions of the group, before more innocent lives are taken.
Civilians who should be living in peace are now haunted by uncertainty, while armed groups continue to launch terror. Given the increasingly heated situation, it is time for the government and security forces to act more firmly to maintain the security and sovereignty of the nation.
The issue of violence in Papua is not a new issue. For years, this region has been a field of conflict between separatist groups and security forces. OPM is one of the parties that often carries out violent actions, with the aim of fighting for Papua’s independence from Indonesia.
However, behind these political reasons, the terror they spread has claimed many victims, including innocent civilians.
Recently, a tragic incident befell a New Zealand helicopter pilot, Glen Malcolm Conning, who was killed in an attack by an armed group in Papua. This incident became a turning point that further demonstrated how critical the situation in the region is.
The statement from the Spokesperson of the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM), Sebby Sambom, who tried to disclaim responsibility for the incident, only shows that this group has no sense of humanity and continues to spread terror without caring who the victims are.
Efforts to maintain security in Papua have been carried out by the government through various means, including sending TNI and Polri troops to conduct security operations. One example is the sweeping action carried out by Yonif 614/Raja Pandhita Soldiers in Popome Village, Mokoni District, Lanny Jaya Regency.
This action aims to hinder the movement of OPM and prevent the entry of goods that have the potential to trigger security disturbances.
The move received full support from the local community who participated in efforts to maintain security in their area. This shows that the Papuan people actually want to live in peace and security, far from the shadow of violence that continues to lurk.
This public support should be important capital for the government and security forces in carrying out their duties.
However, these efforts alone are not enough. Violence continues, and the OPM seems to never run out of ways to disrupt stability in Papua. Therefore, the government needs to implement a more comprehensive strategy, not only focusing on the security aspect, but also on a more humanistic and dialogical approach to address the root of the problem in Papua.
Amid the increasingly heated situation, the role of the House of Representatives (DPR) is crucial in encouraging the government to take firm action. Member of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the PDIP faction, Sturman Panjaitan, firmly urged the government to immediately stop the violence in Papua.
According to him, the safety of civilians must be the top priority, and acts of violence that claim lives cannot be allowed to continue to occur.
This pressure from the DPR shows that there is a strong awareness at the legislative level about how serious the problem of violence in Papua is. However, pressure alone is not enough. Real and immediate action is needed from the government to respond to this situation.
One step that can be taken is to strengthen cooperation between the central government and regional governments in Papua, as well as involving local community leaders in efforts to maintain security and order.
Diplomacy also plays an important role in resolving this conflict. Although the OPM is known as an armed group that is difficult to negotiate with, diplomatic efforts must still be made as part of a comprehensive approach to creating peace in Papua.
This is in line with Sturman Panjaitan’s statement that fully supports every diplomatic effort that can bring peace to Papua.
The prolonged conflict in Papua has left a profound impact on the local community. Many residents live in fear and trauma due to the violent actions that occur around them. This situation is further exacerbated by the lack of access to health and education services, which makes the lives of residents even worse.
This condition shows that the violence carried out by the OPM has not only affected their targets, but also the general public who have to bear the burden of this conflict. The government must immediately take steps to restore this situation, by providing protection and assistance needed by affected civilians.
In addition, it is important for the government to improve communication and relations with the Papuan people. Many residents feel marginalized and ignored by the central government, resulting in feelings of distrust and dissatisfaction that are one of the triggers of conflict.
By strengthening communication and listening to people’s aspirations, the government can create a more conducive atmosphere for peace and development in Papua.
The violence committed by the OPM must not be allowed to continue. The government and security forces must act firmly to maintain security and order in Papua. More strategic and comprehensive steps need to be taken to end this conflict, while still respecting human rights and national sovereignty.
The safety of civilians must be a top priority, and there is no place for violence in the pursuit of peace in Papua. It is time to act decisively, for a safer and more prosperous future for all Papuans.
*) Law student at the University of Papua (Unipa)
