By Maria Juli Sawias
A series of acts of violence and provocation carried out by the Free Papua Organization (OPM) have caused fear and unrest among the community. Increasingly, the voices of the people who reject all forms of violence and provocation are becoming louder and louder. They not only rejected OPM’s actions, but also showed support for the security forces in taking firm action against crimes committed by this group.
The provocations and acts of violence carried out by the OPM so far not only threaten security stability in the Land of Papua, but also harm the local community. Many residents have lost their homes, experienced psychological trauma, and lost family members due to this never-ending violence.
The Papuan people want peace and stability, so they can live in peace, work and build a better future for their children.
On July 1 every year, the separatist group OPM commemorates their anniversary, often by spreading independence propaganda that threatens Indonesia’s stability and unity. However, this year, the combined efforts of the security forces and the Papuan people have succeeded in keeping the situation conducive.
The efforts made by the Maybrat Resort Police (Polres), Southwest Papua, should be appreciated, as is the community’s rejection of the OPM provocation.
The Maybrat Resort Police have taken various proactive steps to ensure security and order in their area. Deputy Head of the Maybrat Resort Police (Wakapolres), AKP Muhammad Rusli, explained that they were increasing the preparedness and vigilance of personnel in dealing with potential security disturbances on OPM day. Alert calls and routine patrols are carried out to ensure there are no significant disturbances.
Maybrat Police Chief, Commissioner Ruben Obed Kbarek, said that patrols were carried out in various villages, including Susumuk Village, Kumurkek Village and Ayawasi Village. Apart from that, they also carry out blue light patrols and monitor traffic flow at vulnerable points. As a result, the security and public order (Kamtibmas) situation in Maybrat remains safe and under control, without any outstanding incidents.
Rusli emphasized the importance of this collaboration to maintain public security and order in the Maybrat area. Synergy between security forces and related agencies is the key to success in maintaining security in Papua. Good collaboration between various parties, including the community, ensures that all potential disruptions can be anticipated quickly and effectively.
Apart from the efforts of the security forces, the role of the Papuan people in rejecting OPM provocations is also very significant. A Papuan youth leader, Paul Ohee, strongly opposed the OPM anniversary. According to him, the independence propaganda promoted by the OPM is a threat to the unity and integrity of Indonesia. Paul emphasized that armed resistance by the OPM would not have a better impact in resolving various problems in Papua. On the other hand, constructive dialogue and sustainable development are more effective ways to overcome problems in Papua, while still respecting Indonesia’s sovereignty.
Paul Ohee also reminded that Indonesia is a country rich in cultural, ethnic and linguistic diversity. Papua, with its natural beauty and unique culture, is an integral part of Indonesia. He invited all Papuan people to play an active role in maintaining unity and rejecting all forms of propaganda that damage the integrity of the nation. Through education, socialization and strengthening national values, society can strengthen feelings of love for the country and ensure that every region, including Papua, receives the attention it deserves in national development.
Kapendam XVII/Cenderawasih, Lt. Col. Inf Candra Kurniawan, also revealed that OPM continues to spread provocative issues among the public, especially ahead of the 2024 regional elections. Candra hopes that the public will remain calm and not be influenced by the OPM’s calls for provocative action. According to him, development that does not take place due to interference from OPM will make the community suffer victims. Therefore, it is important for people to continue carrying out normal activities and not be tempted by OPM propaganda.
The success in maintaining a conducive situation in Papua on the OPM anniversary is the result of joint efforts between the security forces and the community. Security forces have demonstrated their commitment to maintaining security and order through various proactive actions. Meanwhile, young people such as Paul Ohee, have shown that they reject all forms of provocation that could damage the unity and integrity of Indonesia.
It is important to remember that the Papuan people should not be passive spectators in this conflict. They are the main actors who have the right and voice in determining their future. By rejecting OPM’s provocations and supporting the security forces, the Papuan people have shown that they want positive and sustainable change. They want peace, security and the opportunity to build a better life.
Papua is an integral part of Indonesia, and efforts to maintain stability and peace in this region must continue. Through good cooperation between security forces, related agencies and the community, Papua can continue to develop and progress within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). In this way, every Papuan citizen can feel the benefits of existing unity and diversity, and contribute to building a more harmonious and prosperous Indonesia.
The author is a student from Papua in Surabaya