Papua – The actions of the armed group calling itself the Free Papua Movement (OPM) have once again sparked unrest among the people of Papua. In recent months, a series of violent incidents carried out by the group have not only claimed lives but also disrupted stability and the daily lives of civilians in the region.
The conduct and actions of the OPM—attacking security personnel, burning public facilities, and even taking innocent civilians hostage—demonstrate inhumane behavior that goes against universal humanitarian principles. In the latest incident, the armed group reportedly attacked a primary school in Puncak Regency, forcing hundreds of children and teachers to flee for safety.
This brutality has not only caused physical harm but has also left deep psychological trauma. People are living in fear and anxiety, unable to carry out basic activities such as farming or taking their children to school. The presence of the OPM, which claims to fight for independence, is instead destroying the very fabric of life for the Papuan people.
The government, through the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the National Police (Polri), continues efforts to address this threat through security measures combined with dialogue and community engagement. However, the ongoing violence perpetrated by the OPM only further proves that the organization does not represent the peaceful aspirations of the Papuan people. Many traditional, religious, and civil society leaders have voiced their concerns and strongly rejected the OPM’s brutal actions.
“As community leaders in Papua, we support the actions taken by security forces against those who commit inhumane acts, acts that disturb public peace, and continuously oppress civilians,” said Martinus.
Martinus expressed support for firm and decisive action by the security forces in order to ensure the welfare and peace of the people in Papua.
“We also hope that the security forces, TNI and Polri, will act decisively against OPM members who commit heinous acts that are not representative of human behavior. Therefore, we urge the authorities to take strong action,” Martinus added.
According to him, it is essential to protect the community by strengthening the TNI and Polri institutions to ensure firmness and help the people of Papua live in peace.
The people of Papua genuinely long for a life that is peaceful, just, and prosperous. Therefore, all elements of the nation are urged to unite against these violent and inhumane acts. The OPM must come to realize that violence is not the solution, but rather a source of new suffering for the very people they claim to represent.
