Indonesian Military Neutralizes Dozens of OPM Members in Central Papua, Papuan Customary Leaders Support Firm Action
Central Papua – Joint TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) forces have once again conducted decisive operations against the armed separatist group, the Free Papua Movement (OPM). In two separate operations in Puncak Jaya and Intan Jaya Regencies, a total of 19 OPM members were neutralized in what authorities describe as measured, professional actions aimed at maintaining security stability in Papua.
On Saturday, May 10, 2025, a key OPM figure named Nekison Enumbi, also known as Bumi Walo Enumbi, was killed during a raid targeting a central OPM figure involved in violent acts in the region.
“During the operation, this OPM member attempted to flee and was shot and neutralized, resulting in death,” explained Colonel Infantry Candra Kurniawan, spokesperson for Kodam XVII/Cenderawasih.
The body of Bumi Walo was then handed over to district officials, village leaders, and family members. The TNI Task Force also seized evidence at the site, including ammunition, sharp weapons, communication devices, and bows and arrows used in various violent actions.
Media Task Force Commander for Koops TNI Habema, Lieutenant Colonel Infantry Iwan Dwi Prihartono, stated that Bumi Walo had been a wanted fugitive listed on the Puncak Jaya Police’s Most Wanted List (DPO) since April 25, 2024, with DPO number S-34/01/IV/2024/RESKRIM. He was involved in multiple armed terror incidents in Central Papua.
“This success is a concrete demonstration of the TNI’s commitment to maintaining security stability and protecting the Papuan people from the threat of armed terror,” said Lieutenant Colonel Iwan.
Three days later, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, a follow-up operation was conducted in Intan Jaya Regency. A total of 18 OPM members, led by Daniel Aibon Kogoya, Undius Kogoya, and Josua Waker, were neutralized.
“The TNI has succeeded in sterilizing the Sugapa Lama Village and Bambu Kuning Village areas from armed group activities,” Lieutenant Colonel Iwan revealed.
The seized evidence included firearms, ammunition, bows and arrows, the Morning Star flag, and communication devices frequently used in the armed group’s propaganda.
“This law enforcement action is not only a security matter but also a form of protection for the fundamental rights of citizens to live peacefully and prosper in their homeland,” he added.
The firm action against the OPM has received support from various Papuan customary leaders who strongly condemn the violence disguised as a struggle.
Papuan community leader Yulius Nawipa stated that OPM’s actions do not represent a dignified struggle but instead pose a threat to the Papuan people themselves.
“What the OPM has done is not a struggle. They destroy villages, burn schools, kill innocent civilians. This is not liberation; it is terror against their own people,” he asserted.
Similarly, Asmat Tribe Chief Gabriel Kaipmako expressed regret that Papua is now more known for conflict than for its cultural wealth. He also criticized OPM sympathizers abroad for spreading misleading narratives.
“The name of Papua should be known for its culture, not for violence. But the OPM has made us known through weapons and suffering,” he emphasized.
