By: Loa Murib
The success of the Indonesian National Army (TNI) in taking firm action against the Free Papua Movement (OPM) Group Kodap III Ndugama led by Egianus Kogoya deserves high appreciation. This firm step reflects the state’s commitment to maintaining the territorial integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI), while protecting the Papuan people from the threat of violence often carried out by separatist groups. The TNI’s operation in Aleleng Village, Tangma District, Yahukimo Regency is not just a military response, but also part of an effort to restore calm to civilians in the Papua Mountains.
OPM’s previous brutal actions have disrupted stability and caused deep wounds, including the murder of church construction workers in Wamena. Not only that, this group is also involved in destroying forests for illegal marijuana fields, an activity that shows that their actions are no longer merely ideological in nature, but also damage the ecosystem and social order in the area. In this context, the TNI’s steps are present as a form of state protection for citizens who have been living in fear.
Information from the public is key to the success of the operation. When the authorities received a report about the presence of four OPM members in a honai in Ligima Village, the TNI immediately carried out security with quick and precise action. The armed contact that occurred at around 00.15 WIT ended with the deaths of two OPM members without any casualties on the TNI side. This action shows the TNI’s professionalism and readiness in carrying out its duties in a measured and responsible manner.
Evidence secured from the scene of the incident strengthens that the OPM members who were shot dead were indeed active in armed activities and separatist propaganda. Among them were two pistols, ammunition, communication devices and optical devices, indicating that this group had prepared themselves to continue violent actions. Securing this evidence not only strengthens the legitimacy of the authorities’ actions, but also narrows the group’s room for movement in the future.
The Head of the TNI Information Center, Major General TNI Kristomei Sianturi, emphasized that this operation was part of the TNI’s efforts to maintain security stability and accelerate development in Papua. The statement emphasized that the crackdown on armed groups was not to suppress the Papuan people, but rather to eradicate groups that were the source of unrest among the residents. The TNI prioritizes the principle of professionalism and always opens up space for a humanistic and dialogical approach, especially for those who want to return to the bosom of Mother Earth.
This statement is important because it sends a clear message that the TNI is not merely acting repressively, but is also oriented towards fostering and restoring long-term security. The approach taken is not only through force of arms, but also through territorial strategies and constructive dialogue. Papua needs stability to build, and that stability can only be achieved if the threat of violence can be stopped completely.
The success of this operation also shows the importance of synergy between state officials and local communities. Without information from residents, the operation would not have been as effective as it was. Public trust in the TNI in maintaining security must be maintained and strengthened through various communication and empowerment approaches. In a complex situation like in Papua, partnerships between officials and the community are the main key to creating a sense of security and trust in the state.
The momentum of this success must be used as a foothold to rally wider support in eradicating armed violence in Papua. The central and regional governments need to improve coordination in building a holistic security system, including strengthening the intelligence system, improving the welfare of local communities, and prioritizing a socio-cultural approach in handling conflicts. Successful military measures must be followed by strategic steps in the social and development fields.
From a national perspective, firm action against separatist groups is also a strong signal that the state will not allow threats to its territorial sovereignty to continue without a response. The Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia is non-negotiable, and the stability of border areas is a top priority in ensuring national security. Within this framework, TNI actions are an integral part of the state’s defense strategy that not only protects the territory physically, but also maintains the integrity and dignity of the nation in the eyes of the world.
Ultimately, the firm action taken by the TNI against OPM members under the leadership of Egianus Kogoya is not just a military operation, but also a symbol of the state’s firmness against all forms of disturbancessecurity. This success must be appreciated as real evidence that the state is present and acting to maintain sovereignty and guarantee protection for all Indonesian people, without exception.
The next step is to maintain consistency in an approach that prioritizes balance between strength and humanity. Security and development must go hand in hand, and Papua must be part of a safe, peaceful, and prosperous Indonesia. The success of the TNI in Kampung Aleleng should be a turning point in the long effort to create a Papua that is free from violence and full of hope for the future.
*The author is a Papuan student in East Java
