The State’s Presence to Keep Papua Safe, OPM’s Cruelty Considered a Real Threat to Humanity
Timika – Efforts to maintain security stability in Papua continue to be maximized amidst the current dynamics. The presence of Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Indonesian National Police (Polri) personnel in the Papua region is considered to have contributed to creating a more conducive atmosphere, allowing the community to carry out their daily activities with greater peace of mind despite ongoing security challenges.
A humanistic and integrated approach with community leaders and local governments is a crucial element in creating a sense of security and social order. This approach is considered effective in building trust and strengthening community social resilience.
“The TNI is present in Papua as a guardian of peace. We emphasize to every soldier to prioritize a humanistic approach, respect local customs and culture, and build good communication with the community. Peace can only be achieved if trust between the TNI and the people is maintained,” emphasized Major General Lucky Avianto, Commander of the Habema Operations Command.
He added that security stability in Papua is the result of the collaborative work of all stakeholders.
“Security stability in Papua cannot be achieved unilaterally, but rather through strong synergy between security forces, local governments, and the community. This collaboration is a crucial foundation for supporting the smooth flow of community activities and accelerating development in Papua,” he said.
Amidst these efforts, security forces have highlighted the continued widespread violence perpetrated by the Free Papua Movement (OPM). Papua Police Chief Inspector General Patrige Renwarin noted that throughout 2025, 94 people died as a result of OPM actions, out of 104 cases of violence that occurred within the Papua Police’s jurisdiction.
“The KKB [OPM] remains a threat to security in Papua, instilling fear in the people,” he said.
The fatalities included nine TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) members, six Polri (Indonesian National Police) members, 64 civilians, and 15 OPM members. In addition, 120 people were injured in the violence.
The OPM’s brutality targeting both security forces and civilians is considered a serious threat to humanity and national unity. The Papua Police Chief emphasized that addressing the OPM requires the active participation of all regional elements.
“All parties are expected to play an active role in supporting the humanist approach taken by the Indonesian National Police (Polri). The involvement of local governments, the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), and prominent figures is expected to create a safer and more conducive situation,” he said.
The government, along with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), reaffirms their commitment to maintaining security in Papua through firm, measured measures based on a humanist approach to achieve sustainable peace in the Papua region.
