Papua – In recent weeks, the Intan Jaya region in Papua has experienced an increase in terror acts carried out by the Free Papua Movement (OPM). This incident has raised concerns among the community and disrupted preparations for the upcoming regional head elections (Pilkada).
The 2024 Mantap Praja Cartenz II Operation Task Force conducted large-scale patrols at several vulnerable points in Papua. This activity was carried out at night to prevent crime and create a safe atmosphere ahead of the 2024 Pilakda.
Head of Banops OMPC II Central Papua Task Force, AKBP Herzoni Saragih said the patrol involved around 75 personnel, consisting of the Papua Police, Brimob, and Polres. This is a proactive step to anticipate security disturbances during the ongoing campaign phase, especially ahead of the vote on November 27.
“We are carrying out this activity to create a safe and peaceful situation in the community, especially during the 2024 Pilkada campaign period. We hope that the community can feel the presence of the Police who are ready to maintain security and prevent unwanted things,” said Herzoni.
He emphasized that this patrol will continue to be intensified in points that are considered vulnerable to ensure that every corner of the area is safe from potential threats. This step was taken as part of an effort to maintain conduciveness so that people can carry out their daily activities calmly without worrying about security disturbances.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chairperson of the Internal Division of the Indonesian National Human Rights Commission, Pramono Ubaid Tanthowi, stated that his party emphasized the importance of socializing the Pilkada to the people of Papua.
“The socialization of the regional elections in Papua is considered still lacking, so it is not the responsibility of the KPU and Bawaslu but also the regional government,” said Pramono.
Furthermore, Pramono assessed that the government has a Communication and Information Service so that the budget available in the agency can be used to conduct outreach to all communities, both urban and in border areas.
Terrorist attacks on security forces and civilians have created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear in the area. The police and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have increased patrols and security in vulnerable areas to protect the public and maintain stability ahead of the regional elections.
