By: Abisai Wamang
The situation in Papua has heated up again with a shootout between the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM) and TNI/Polri security forces in Pogapa Village, Homeo District, Intan Jaya Regency.
The conflict that occurred on Friday, August 30, 2024, shows how the threat from the OPM is increasingly real and is damaging harmony and security in the Papua region. This incident also reflects the major challenges faced by Indonesia in maintaining territorial integrity and protecting civilians amidst the prolonged escalation of conflict.
This incident of attack by OPM is not the first time it has happened in Papua. However, the more often this violence occurs, the more real its impact on the daily lives of local people.
The presence of OPM in the region not only threatens security stability, but also creates fear and uncertainty among civilians. The violence carried out by OPM has worsened the situation, where people who should be able to live safely and peacefully are now trapped in a cycle of violence that seems never to end.
In this latest incident, TPNPB-OPM, under the leadership of Major Keny Tipagau, launched an attack on TNI/Polri officers on duty around Pogapa Airport. Sebby Sambom, OPM spokesman, claimed that this attack was a form of resistance against the Indonesian military presence in Papua.
He also stated that OPM is ready to shoot at civilian aircraft that will land at the airport if it is used to drop military troops. This action clearly shows that OPM is not only targeting security forces, but also threatening the safety of innocent civilians.
This threat to the safety of civil aviation is a very dangerous form of terror. Pogapa Airport, which should be a vital means for the mobility of the community and the local economy, is now a vulnerable point that is feared by many parties.
Attacks on public facilities like this not only disrupt daily activities, but also damage infrastructure that is vital to development in the area.
The violence committed by OPM also had an impact on the implementation of the upcoming Regional Head Election (Pilkada). Sebby Sambom firmly stated that OPM would do everything to thwart the Pilkada in Intan Jaya Regency.
This threat raises concerns that the democratic process that should run smoothly and peacefully is now under the shadow of violence and intimidation. People who want to participate in the election are threatened by the possibility of attacks from the OPM, which could hamper the implementation of the Pilkada and harm the democratic process in Papua.
The Indonesian government, through security forces, continues to strive to maintain stability in the Papua region. Security measures are being increased, especially in areas considered vulnerable such as the Homeyo District.
Commander of Koops Habema, Brigadier General Lucky Avianto, explained that this step was taken to ensure the security and smooth running of community activities, including flights at Pogapa Airport. However, this effort does not always run smoothly. OPM dissatisfaction with the response of security forces often triggers clashes that are detrimental to all parties.
The incident on August 30 also sparked resistance from local people in Homeyo District. Residents who felt threatened by the presence of OPM tried to expel them from the area.
This resistance shows that not all Papuans support the violence carried out by the OPM. Many of them actually want peace and stability, and a better life without the threat of armed groups.
However, on the other hand, the existence of OPM is also a reflection of deeper problems in Papua. Dissatisfaction with central government policies, economic disparities, and complex social and political issues are also factors that encourage some people to join OPM.
However, the use of violence to achieve political goals will only bring suffering to society and damage the existing social order.
In this context, it is important for the Indonesian government to not only rely on a security approach in dealing with the conflict in Papua. A more comprehensive approach is needed, which includes dialogue with various parties, improving community welfare, and respecting human rights.
Thus, efforts to achieve sustainable peace in Papua can be more effective and acceptable to all parties.
It is also important for the international community, especially the member countries of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), to participate in finding a solution to the conflict in Papua. The OPM’s insistence that MSG countries investigate human rights violations in Papua shows that this issue has become an international concern.
Support from the international community can help encourage dialogue and a peaceful resolution to this conflict.
The increasingly complex situation in Papua requires serious attention and action from all parties. The threat from the OPM that continues to disrupt security and harmony in the region must be handled wisely.
The Papuan people have the right to live in peace and have the opportunity to build a better future. Therefore, it is important for all of us to support efforts that can bring peace and justice to Papua, and ensure that the rights of local communities are respected and protected.
*) Political Science Student, Cenderawasih University (Uncen)
