By : Maria Suhiap )*
The brutal attack carried out by the Free Papua Organization (OPM) in Yahukimo Regency, Papua Mountains, at the end of July 2024, not only created deep sorrow for the families of the victims but also left collective wounds for all Indonesian society.
This atrocity that killed a civilian named Abdul Muzakir shows how important it is to make serious efforts to stop the ongoing violence in Papua.
Senior Commissioner Bayu Suseno, Head of Public Relations of the Cartenz-2024 Peace Task Force, confirmed that this incident occurred when Abdul Muzakir was driving his truck through Masi Village, Yahukimo. In the back of his truck, 13 civilians were riding. They were confronted by a group of OPM members who were not only armed with firearms but also carrying sharp weapons.
Abdul’s attempt to escape the attack by turning his truck around ended tragically when the vehicle crashed, forcing Abdul and his passenger to flee. However, unfortunately, Abdul was shot and died on the spot.
The condition of Abdul’s body which was found full of horrific wounds added to the heartache. Deep cuts on the neck, severed fingers and other injuries show how cruel this attack was.
The truck that Abdul was driving was not spared from destruction, it was completely burnt out. Meanwhile, the 13 passengers who were in the truck have not yet been found, adding to the uncertainty and worry of their families.
This attack is just one of the many violence that has occurred in Papua, where areas such as Yahukimo have long been conflict areas declared war zones by the OPM. This prolonged conflict has claimed many lives, including civilians, OPM members and Indonesian security forces.
OPM continues to attempt to separate Papua from Indonesia, using various violent methods that often target innocent civilians. This is not only an inhumane act, but also creates a persistent atmosphere of fear among local people who only want to live in peace on their own land.
Apart from Yahukimo, there are several other areas that were also declared war zones by the OPM, including Sinak, Ilaga, Puncak, Puncak Jaya, Nduga, Bintang Mountains, and Sorong. This situation shows how complex the problems faced in Papua are, which cannot be solved only by military force, but require a more holistic and sustainable approach.
Not long after the incident in Yahukimo, OPM also claimed responsibility for the attack on the Indonesian military post in Kampung Titigi, Intan Jaya Regency. This attack killed a TNI soldier and injured another. In the attack carried out by the Bula Angin Battalion, the group even admitted to having damaged armored military vehicles used by TNI troops.
OPM spokesperson, Sebby Sambom, firmly stated that this action was part of their struggle to gain recognition of West Papua’s independence. They even challenged the Indonesian President to immediately hold international negotiations to resolve this conflict before his term of office ends.
This series of brutal attacks raises deep questions about Papua’s future. Will violence continue to be the only language used in this conflict, or are there other paths that can be taken to achieve peace? Papuan people, like people in other parts of Indonesia, have the right to a peaceful and prosperous life, far from the shadow of violence and fear.
The government has repeatedly emphasized that Papua is a legitimate part of the Republic of Indonesia, and various efforts have been made to improve the welfare of the Papuan people. However, ongoing violence shows that much work remains to be done. Inclusive dialogue, equitable development and fair law enforcement must be the main priorities to bring positive change in Papua.
The international community also has an important role in promoting a peaceful resolution of this conflict. However, the desired solution must come from the will of the Papuan people themselves, not from external intervention that might only make the situation worse. All parties must sit together, listen to each other, and find a solution that is acceptable to all.
This brutal attack carried out by the OPM must not be allowed to become the new normality in Papua. Every life lost, every wound created, is a tragedy that must be stopped. All elements of society, both in Papua and throughout Indonesia, must unite in condemning violence and supporting peaceful efforts to resolve this conflict.
Indonesian people must stand firm in solidarity, not only for those who are direct victims of this violence, but also for all Papuans who long for peace. It’s time for all of us to encourage peaceful dialogue and stop the cycle of violence that only brings further destruction.
Papua is an integral part of Indonesia, and the welfare of its people is our shared responsibility. We must work hard to ensure that they can live in peace, without fear, and with hope for a better future. Let us together condemn violence and support every effort to bring Papua towards lasting peace.
)* Papuan students live in Bali
