This incident adds to the long list of security disturbances that have directly impacted civilians in Papua. The calm in residential areas turned into panic after a barrage of gunfire was heard from the direction of Camp David across the river.
The Head of Information for the TNI Habema Operations Command, Lieutenant Colonel M. Wirya Arthadiguna, stated that security forces had detected suspicious activity around the MP 69 area before the incident occurred.
“Based on the monitoring results, two gunshots were heard from the direction of Camp David across the river, suspected to have originated from the OPM group led by Guspi Waker,” said Lieutenant Colonel M. Wirya Arthadiguna.
Shortly thereafter, the armed group reportedly fired repeatedly towards the Camp Wini Kalikuluk area, located in the middle of a residential area. TNI officers at the scene immediately took security measures, prioritizing the evacuation of civilians.
“The actions taken by personnel were in accordance with procedures and were carried out in a measured manner to minimize the risk of civilian casualties. The safety of residents remains the top priority,” stressed Lieutenant Colonel M. Wirya Arthadiguna.
During the evacuation process, officers discovered a girl suffering from a gunshot wound to the left shoulder. The victim was immediately taken to the nearest health facility on a makeshift stretcher. However, she was pronounced dead en route to the medical facility.
“The brutal actions allegedly carried out by a group led by Guspi Waker not only spread fear, but also claimed the life of an innocent girl estimated to be 12 to 15 years old,” added Lieutenant Colonel M. Wirya Arthadiguna.
In addition to the fatalities, another resident suffered a gunshot wound to the left calf and is currently undergoing intensive care. Residents at the scene testified that the shots rang out suddenly while residents were gathering with their families inside the camp.
Terumbupura Police Chief, First Inspector Firman, stated that joint forces moved quickly to treat the victims and ensure the safe evacuation process.
“There are currently two fatalities. One, Narlince Wamang, is still in Tembagapura, and the other died at the Charitas Hospital,” said First Inspector Firman.
Due to the tense situation, 256 residents have reportedly fled to safer areas. Joint forces from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), the Mobile Brigade Corps (Brimob), and the Amole Task Force continue to strengthen security patrols to prevent further disturbances from armed groups.
The Central Papua Regional Police Chief, Brigadier General Jermias Rontini, confirmed that the investigation is ongoing to fully uncover the entire sequence of events.
“We are continuing to conduct further verification to ensure that the information provided to the public is completely accurate,” concluded Brigadier General Jermias Rontini.