By: Yewen Nawipa*
Papua is an inseparable part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). Indonesia’s sovereignty is not only recognized internationally, but most importantly, the Papuan people themselves also really love their homeland, namely Indonesia. For this reason, residents in Papua strongly support the security forces’ firm actions in eradicating the separatist actions of the Papuan Separatist and Terrorist Group (KST).
At the end of December 2023, Papua again witnessed a shooting tragedy that claimed the lives of two TNI soldiers from Yonif 133/YS Boshua Post Pamtas Task Force in South Aifan District, Maybrat Regency. This incident opened a deep wound in the solemnity of Christmas, making the celebration filled with sadness and sorrow. This cruel action, carried out by KST or known as the Papuan Armed Criminal Group (KKB), must be responded to with firm action from the security forces.
Responding to this incident, the Head of the TNI Penuspen, Brigadier General TNI Nugraha Gumilar, expressed his sadness and condemnation of KST’s actions which had harmed the solemnity of Christmas. In this context, support for security forces who are pursuing the shooter is a necessity. The pursuit carried out by the West Papua Joint Task Command (Kogasgab) is a concrete step to resolve the threat from KST.
It needs to be acknowledged that firm action from the security forces is a necessity considering the escalation of violence that continues to occur in Papua. National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo revealed that the armed criminal group (KKB) or terrorist separatist group (KST) in Papua had carried out 199 actions during 2023, with 146 people becoming victims. These figures reflect an alarming escalation of violence, which could endanger the security and stability of the region.
In its efforts to suppress the Papua KST movement, the National Police continues to improve the capabilities of regional units by expanding the Papua Regional Police. This step reflects the National Police’s commitment to involving more personnel in efforts to prevent and prosecute armed groups in Papua. Protection of the Papuan people from KST Papua attacks is a priority, and the National Police is trying to collaborate with all existing stakeholders.
Operations such as Operation Peace Cartenz, Operation Paro, Operation Rastra Samara Kasih, and Operation Picking Bintang Mansinam reflect the concrete efforts of the security forces to eradicate KST Papua. Collaboration between the National Police and the TNI was also seen in the search for the Susi Air pilot, Captain Philip Marks, who was being held captive by the KKB/KST Papua. This joint action shows solidarity and strong coordination between the two national security institutions.
It is important to note that KST Papua is not only a threat to security, but also a threat to state sovereignty. TPNPB-OPM, the group that claimed responsibility for the shooting in Maybrat, stated that their actions were part of the West Papua National Liberation war. Despite underlying historical and political imperatives, these efforts continue to challenge state authority and regional stability.
In this context, TNI Headquarters emphasized its determination to pursue the perpetrators of the shooting of two of its soldiers in the South Aifat District. This pursuit must be continued with firmness and high professionalism to ensure success in capturing the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
It is important to underline that the firm actions taken by the security forces are not solely to confront armed groups, but also to protect the Papuan people who are victims of this violence. Full support from the Papuan people and all elements of the nation is needed to create a climate of sustainable security and peace in the region.
The Papuan people need to support the security forces’ steps by providing relevant information to assist enforcement operations. Moral support and compliance with the rule of law will strengthen the security forces’ steps in eradicating KST Papua. Active community involvement can also help build the necessary trust and cooperation between security forces and local communities.
The Papuan people must also show strong determination to remain united in the Republic of Indonesia. Rejection of the separatist movement is not an act of hostility, but rather a form of concern for stability and mutual progress. By upholding the national spirit, the Papuan people hope to achieve prosperity and harmony within the framework of strong Indonesian unity.
The security forces’ actions taken to eradicate Papuan KST have been accompanied by the government’s efforts to address the root of the problem behind the conflict. Increasing the welfare and empowerment of the Papuan people, dialogue between the government and community groups, and increasing access to education and employment are important steps taken to reduce tension and conflict in Papua.
Through community support and holistic measures, Indonesia can achieve a sustainable solution to the conflict in Papua. The safety and welfare of the Papuan people must be a shared priority, and all parties must be committed to creating a safe, peaceful and prosperous Papua. With full support from the community, security forces can carry out their duties more effectively, bring justice, and maintain the country’s sovereignty as a whole.
*The author is a Balinese student originally from Papua