By: Yohana Kogoya )*
Surveillance and security continues to be carried out by security forces in the Papua region, in line with acts of violence that continue to be carried out by the Free Papua Organization (OPM). The preparedness of security forces is the main key in maintaining order and protecting society from the cruelty of separatist groups.
The government continues to increase attention and guard the Papua region, especially the Paniai area which is often the site of acts of terror by the OPM group. On May 22 2024, the YPPGI Kepas Kopo School Building and a row of kiosks on Jalan Raya Madi which was close to the Painai Regional Hospital were burned. This conflict resulted in one civilian being killed and made the community even more anxious.
OPM is also aggressively spreading fake news (hoaxes) which makes people anxious. This was done by OPM when carrying out its action to burn down the Pinai hospital. Head of Information for the Military Regional Command (Kapendam)
Security forces continue to guard the hospital area. Regarding this, the Head of Paniai Hospital, Agus Chen, said that the presence of security forces at the hospital was an instruction from the Ministry of Health and the Commander of the Cenderawasih Regional Military Command. With the presence of officers on guard, his party remains calm that medical services will continue to run.
The community continues to support the efforts of the government and security forces who are at the forefront in protecting security and stopping OPM actions. Kapen Kogabwilhan III, Colonel Czi. Gusti Nyoman Suriastawa said that the community’s support and understanding had a significant impact on the smooth running of the authorities’ work in dealing with OPM atrocities.
The public can also contribute to prevention efforts by increasing information literacy so that they are not fooled by news created by OPM, and it is important for the public to continue to support the security forces in carrying out supervision and guarding against OPM’s efforts to provide logistics and weapons to carry out their actions.
Papuan youth leaders also continue to support security forces and the entire community to maintain safe and conducive security and social order. Secretary General of the Indonesian Red and White Front, Ali Kabiay, said that his party appreciates the performance of the security forces who have provided a sense of security to the Papuan people, so that all security activities in Papua can run safely, peacefully and prosperously. Apart from that, it is important for society, especially the younger generation, not to be easily provoked by misleading or irresponsible issues from groups that differ in the principle of sovereignty from the Republic of Indonesia.
Security forces are also working with local governments in an effort to ensure that the security situation remains under control. One of the efforts made is through community empowerment programs aimed at improving welfare and strengthening social cohesion. With these programs, it is hoped that society will be more independent and not easily influenced by propaganda spread by separatist groups.
Stability in Papua requires a comprehensive approach, involving various aspects such as security, economics and social. Central and regional governments need to collaborate to create policies that support sustainable development in this region. Apart from that, education and increasing public awareness regarding the importance of maintaining national unity and unity are also key factors in creating a peaceful and harmonious environment.
A comprehensive approach and strong law enforcement against OPM is very necessary in handling the Papua conflict. Apart from firm action from the security forces, the government also continues to pay attention to the social, economic and political aspects underlying the conflict. Improving the welfare and empowerment of the Papuan people, as well as improving relations between the central government and local communities, is the key to achieving long-term peace in Papua. This effort is carried out by strengthening the security presence in vulnerable areas.
Support from all parties is very necessary to ensure stability and calm in the region. The government and authorities need to continue to coordinate and work together with the community to create a safe and conducive environment for all parties. It is hoped that Papua can achieve sustainable peace and prosperity.
The presence of security forces who are ready and alert to face threats can increase public trust in the government. This trust is important to ensure cooperation between the community and the authorities in maintaining the security of their environment.
With good preparedness, security forces can respond quickly to any threats and provide maximum protection to the community, which is a crucial element in efforts to prevent OPM atrocities against the community. With collaboration between institutions, a comprehensive approach, is an effort by the security forces to protect the community and maintain security stability and peace in the Papua region.