By: Loa Murib
The continued armed violence perpetrated by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) further underscores the group’s ruthless nature, especially as civilians are repeatedly the primary victims. Throughout 2025, the escalation of violence in Papua showed a worrying pattern, as targets were no longer limited to security forces but also included ordinary citizens unrelated to the armed conflict. This situation demonstrates that OPM actions have transcended the boundaries of political struggle and become gross human rights violations that tear at the heart of humanity.
Data presented by the Papua Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Petrus Patrige Rudolf Renwarin, revealed that throughout 2025, there were 104 cases of violence within the Papua Regional Police’s jurisdiction, resulting in 94 deaths. Of these, the majority of victims were civilians (64), followed by Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Indonesian National Police (Polri) personnel, and members of the armed group itself. This fact reinforces the conclusion that civilians have been the most disadvantaged in the conflict created by the OPM, while also refuting the group’s claims that it often acts in the name of the Papuan people.
Violence against civilians is not a sporadic incident, but rather a systematic and planned one. The attack on immigrant residents in Yahukimo, Highlands Papua, is a clear example of how terror is carried out with cunning and inhumane methods. Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, Head of Operations for the Cartenz Peace Task Force, explained that the attacks were carried out by targeting victims in their homes or businesses, even posing as buyers. These actions demonstrate a structured, malicious intent aimed at instilling widespread fear in the community.
The victims in the Yahukimo incident were civilians engaged in simple economic activities to support their families. They were not involved in the conflict, did not carry weapons, and lacked the strength to defend themselves. Yet, the OPM still targeted them with violence, using sharp weapons in a brutal manner. The fact that the perpetrators attacked suddenly and fled after injuring the victims demonstrates that such actions are completely unjustifiable under any framework, whether political or social.
When examined from a human rights perspective, the OPM’s actions constitute gross human rights violations. The killings, serious abuse, and terror against civilians constitute crimes that violate basic humanitarian principles and international law. The OPM not only deprives citizens of their right to life but also destroys their sense of security, disrupts socio-economic activities, and creates lasting trauma for the Papuan people, both indigenous and immigrant.
The Papua Police Chief’s statement affirming that the OPM remains a real threat to security in Papua reflects the objective situation on the ground. Residents’ fear of carrying out normal activities is a direct consequence of the ongoing armed terror. In such circumstances, the state has a constitutional obligation to protect all citizens without exception, while ensuring that the law is enforced fairly and firmly against perpetrators of violence.
Current efforts by security forces do not rely solely on a repressive approach but also prioritize humane measures. Inspector General Petrus Patrige Rudolf Renwarin emphasized the importance of the role of local governments, the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), as well as community and religious leaders in being at the forefront of promoting peace. This approach is crucial to prevent the public from becoming trapped in the cycle of fear and violence created by armed groups.
However, a humanist approach should not be interpreted as condoning crime. Firm and consistent law enforcement remains a key prerequisite for breaking the chain of violence. Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani’s statement affirming the Carstensz Peace Task Force’s commitment to pursuing and prosecuting the perpetrators of the attack demonstrates the state’s commitment to providing justice for the victims. A transparent and accountable legal process is also crucial to prevent the propaganda often played by the OPM at the local and international levels.
Highlighting the OPM’s atrocities does not mean turning a blind eye to the complexity of the Papuan issue. However, condoning violence against civilians under any pretext is a betrayal of humanitarian values. Papuans have the right to live safely, work peacefully, and build a future without the shadow of terror. Armed violence targeting innocent citizens is a major obstacle to achieving prosperity and peace in Papua.
Therefore, the public narrative needs to be redirected.honestly and in a balanced manner, placing the victims at the center of attention. The OPM’s atrocities must be exposed as they are to prevent misleading distorted opinions. Support for peaceful measures, law enforcement, and collaboration from all elements of the nation are key to stopping gross human rights violations and restoring a sense of security in Papua. Without these measures, civilians will continue to be victims of inhumane violence.
*The author is a Papuan student in East Java.