By: Ricky Rinaldi
Papua has again been hit by alarming violence after brutal attacks by the Free Papua Movement (OPM), targeting civilians and public facilities. These attacks make it clear that the OPM has committed serious human rights violations, disrupted order, and hampered peace efforts in Papua. The Indonesian government remains steadfast in the face of this violence in order to protect the people and maintain territorial integrity.
The latest incidents in the interior of Papua show the increasing aggressiveness of separatist groups. They not only attack security forces, but also target civilians who are not involved in the conflict. The burning of people’s homes, the killing of innocent people, and forced evictions show that the struggle of this group has ignored the basic principles of protecting civilians in armed conflict.
Head of the Papua National Human Rights Commission Representative, Frits Ramandey, stated that almost 70 percent of Papua’s population lives in areas prone to violence. He highlighted that attacks by separatist groups forced many residents to leave their homes and livelihoods, worsening the socio-economic conditions of the community. He also reminded that many cases of human rights violations have not been resolved, and this requires serious attention from the state.
The Indonesian government, through the security forces, has taken firm steps to respond to these attacks. The goal is to stop the violence and ensure the protection of civilians. TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto emphasized that the TNI is changing its combat strategy to be more effective in dealing with threats from separatist groups. He stated that the security forces are ready to face and crush any action that threatens national security.
However, recent developments on the ground show that the challenges are getting tougher. The shooting of the Chairman of the Papua National Human Rights Commission, Frits Ramandey, is clear evidence that the situation is increasingly dangerous for anyone involved in peace efforts. Frits was shot by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) when he was about to cross the Rawara River. At that time, he was carrying out a monitoring task on the condition of residents in the conflict-stricken area.
The shooting shows that separatist groups are now not hesitant to attack human rights activists, who are actually trying to protect the rights of the Papuan people. The attack on key figures such as Frits Ramandey is an indication that the space for dialogue and restoration of human rights in Papua is increasingly narrowing, due to indiscriminate violence.
Security forces immediately evacuated and provided medical treatment to Frits Ramandey. The incident raised widespread concern, as it confirmed that anyone — even those coming on a humanitarian mission — is at risk of becoming a target of violence. This situation shows that armed groups are increasingly uncontrolled in carrying out their actions.
The government strongly condemns the attack on the Chairperson of the Papua National Human Rights Commission. The state considers that the KKB’s actions constitute a serious violation of human rights values and humanitarian principles. The commitment to protect all humanitarian activists was also emphasized, including by increasing security in vulnerable areas.
Violence against human rights activists also strengthens the argument that a security approach is still needed in Papua. The existence of brutal armed groups endangers national stability and public security. Therefore, security operations are still carried out strictly, while still paying attention to the principle of respect for human rights.
In this situation, civilians are the ones who suffer the most. They are trapped in fear, homeless, and cut off from basic access such as education and health. Many residents have been forced to flee to safer places, leaving behind agricultural land and livelihoods that have been the mainstay of their lives.
Local and central governments continue to provide humanitarian assistance to refugees. However, amid the unstable security situation, aid distribution faces many challenges. Control by separatist groups in several areas has limited access for humanitarian agencies.
The attack on the Papua National Human Rights Commission Chair also sends an important message about the urgency of strengthening protection for all parties working in conflict areas. The state is committed to taking legal action against the perpetrators of the shooting, while also tightening surveillance in vulnerable areas, to prevent similar incidents from happening again.
In dealing with this violence, collaboration between security forces, local governments, traditional leaders, and civil society is essential. Only through cross-sector cooperation can stability in Papua be restored. Relying on security forces alone is not enough; an approach that builds public trust in the state is also needed.
Papuan people basically long for peace and a better life. They reject violence, whether it comes from separatist groups or from structural injustice. Therefore, efforts to create a safe and peaceful Papua must continue with real steps in the areas of security, justice, and fairer public services.
The attack on Frits Ramandey is a reminder that the challenges in Papua are far from over. The state must not allow violence to become the norm. Protecting citizens, ensuring the rule of law, and maintaining national stability must remain top priorities. Security in Papua is not just about military operations, but also about guaranteeing the basic right of all people to live free from fear.
With strong determination and working together, it is hoped that Papua can return to being a land of peace, a place where its people can live without the shadow of violence, and build their future with hope.
*)Strategic Issues Observer
