*) By: Evi Damara
One of the biggest challenges in advancing Papua is the existence of the Free Papua Organization (OPM), which often carries out acts of violence and disrupts order in the region. The government, in its efforts to create a safe and prosperous Papua, has decided to increase troops as a strategic step to eradicate OPM members and restore security in Papua.
This additional troop is part of the government’s policy to strengthen the presence and capacity of security forces in Papua. With the presence of more troops and equipped with adequate equipment, it is hoped that they can be more effective in handling actions carried out by the OPM. This step also aims to provide a sense of security to the Papuan people, so that they can live their daily lives without fear.
Deputy Chief of West Papua Regional Police, Brigadier Alfred Papare, said that dozens of Brimob personnel were deployed to carry out the 2024 Mansinam Separatist Operation in Maybrat Regency, Southwest Papua Province, to anticipate disruption to social security and order from the OPM. Dozens of personnel will carry out their duties for six months as a step to anticipate security disturbances as well as to bring conduciveness to Maybrat Regency.
It cannot be denied that the existence of the OPM has caused unrest among the Papuan people. Violent actions carried out by this group, such as attacks on security forces, burning public facilities, and intimidation of civilians, have disrupted stability and development in Papua. Therefore, the government feels the need to take firm action by increasing the number of troops in order to create more conducive conditions.
Commander of Dam This assignment aims to maintain the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) and create a conducive situation in the region which has Special Autonomy status. He hopes that the soldiers can carry out their duties well and can bring a sense of security to the local community. Well-maintained security will provide a sense of security to the community and create a conducive environment for various development programs.
Apart from adding troops, the government is also implementing a comprehensive approach in dealing with problems in Papua. This step does not only rely on military power, but also involves a non-military approach that includes economic development, education and health. The government realizes that the root of the problems in Papua is not only limited to security issues, but is also related to community welfare. By improving the quality of life of the Papuan people, it is hoped that it can reduce support for the OPM and strengthen the unity of the Republic of Indonesia.
The development program implemented in Papua includes infrastructure development, such as roads, bridges and airports, which aims to open up accessibility and facilitate community mobility. Apart from that, the government is also focusing on improving the quality of education by building new schools and providing scholarships to Papuan students.
Not only that, the government is also holding dialogue with various parties, including traditional leaders, religious leaders and community representatives, to listen to aspirations and find the best solutions to problems in Papua. This dialogue aims to create understanding and cooperation in maintaining security and building a better Papua. It is hoped that this humanist approach can strengthen ties between the Papuan people and the government, as well as reduce existing tensions.
Papuan religious figure, Pastor Yones Wenda, invited the entire community to work together with the security forces to maintain the conduciveness of the Papua region so that it remains peaceful and the people can carry out their daily activities without fear of threats and intimidation from the OPM. The public must be calm and not be provoked by the provocation of hoax news that OPM deliberately spreads to discredit the security forces.
In an effort to eradicate OPM members, the government is also committed to enforcing the law fairly and transparently. Every action taken by security forces must comply with applicable legal regulations and not violate the basic rights of the community. The government emphasizes that the main aim of adding troops is to create security and order, not to oppress or intimidate the public.
As part of its security strategy, the government is also increasing cooperation with neighboring countries in addressing cross-border issues related to OPM. This cooperation includes exchanging intelligence information, joint border patrols, and law enforcement against individuals or groups involved in illegal activities in border areas. With close cooperation, it is hoped that external support for OPM can be minimized and security enforcement efforts in Papua can be strengthened.
In conclusion, adding troops to Papua is a strategic step for the government to eradicate OPM members and create safe and conducive conditions for the community. This step was taken with a comprehensive approach, involving military and non-military forces, as well as dialogue with various parties to find the best solution. Even though it is faced with challenges and criticism, the government remains committed to maintaining the security and welfare of the Papuan people within the framework of the Republic of Indonesia. With hard work and cooperation from all parties, it is hoped that Papua can become a safe, peaceful and prosperous region.
*) The author is a Digital Literacy contributor
