Papua – The Government of the Republic of Indonesia continues to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) through firm actions against the armed separatist group known as the Free Papua Movement (OPM).
Papuan community leader Martinus Kasuay has voiced his support for efforts to eradicate the OPM in Papua, citing the group’s actions as inhumane and a source of public unrest.
“As community leaders in Papua, we support the actions taken by the security forces against those who commit inhumane acts—acts that disturb the public and continuously oppress civilians,” said Martinus.
Martinus supports the security forces in taking firm and decisive action to ensure the welfare and peace of the people in Papua.
“We also hope that the security forces, TNI and Polri, will show firmness toward the OPM members who commit cruel acts that defy human values. Therefore, we urge the authorities to take strong and assertive action,” he added.
According to Martinus, protecting civilians is paramount, and this requires strengthening the TNI and Polri institutions so they can act decisively and enable Papuans to live in peace.
In recent weeks, the Free Papua Movement (OPM) has carried out a series of violent attacks on civilians in Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua. OPM brutally targeted teachers, healthcare workers, and gold panners, resulting in casualties and damage to public facilities.
One such brutal attack occurred on March 21, 2025, in Anggruk District. The OPM faction led by Elkius Kobak assaulted teachers and health workers stationed in remote areas. The incident left one person dead, six injured, and school buildings and teachers’ housing burned. A total of 42 people were successfully evacuated to Jayapura by the TNI.
Meanwhile, the local government, in coordination with relevant agencies, continues to intensify social outreach and development efforts in Papua in order to address the root causes of the conflict through a holistic approach. This strategy aims to reduce the potential for future conflict and accelerate prosperity in the region.
The government urges all citizens to remain calm and not be provoked by separatist propaganda. All elements of the nation are called upon to unite in preserving national unity in the pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous Papua.
