Public Supports Security Forces’ Firm Action Against Separatist Movement in Southwest Papua
Sorong – The regional government and security forces have reaffirmed their rejection of the separatist movement known as the Federal Republic of West Papua (NFRPB), which has begun to emerge in Southwest Papua. The movement is considered unconstitutional and a threat to the unity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI), much like the Free Papua Organization (OPM), long known for promoting armed separatism.
The Regent of Raja Ampat, Orideko Burdam, in an official statement in Sorong, firmly rejected all forms of activities and declarations made by NFRPB, which he sees as attempts to break away from Indonesia.
“What Abraham Goram did by declaring himself a Special Staff of the NFRPB and recognizing the so-called Federal Republic of West Papua is clearly in violation of the constitution,” said Orideko Burdam.
Regent Burdam also praised the swift response from Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu and the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda) in addressing the movement.
The statement made by Abraham Goram Gaman on April 14, 2025, on behalf of the NFRPB, is viewed as an act of treason that cannot be tolerated. Burdam emphasized that Southwest Papua Province, including Raja Ampat, is a legitimate and inseparable part of NKRI.
“I call on all components of the Raja Ampat community to safeguard unity and solidarity, and to reject all separatist efforts that could threaten regional stability and security,” he added.
Meanwhile, Commander of Military Resort Command (Danrem) 181/PVT, Brigadier General TNI Totok Sutriono, expressed full support for the National Police’s legal action against NFRPB.
“We will assess the legal aspects—whether they are armed or involved in treason—then the TNI will support the police in enforcing the law,” asserted Brig. Gen. Totok.
He also reminded the public that Papua is a legitimate part of Indonesia based on the results of the Act of Free Choice (Pepera), which has been internationally recognized. He stressed that there should be no unilateral claims, such as those made by separatist groups like OPM.
“From Sabang to Merauke, that is our territory. There should be no other statements beyond that… The outcome of Pepera confirms Indonesia’s sovereignty as recognized by the international community,” he said.
Deputy Chief of the Southwest Papua Regional Police, Commissioner Semmy Ronny Thaba, added that his office is investigating the alleged act of treason, which carries a penalty of up to 12 years in prison.
“We believe this is one of the steps we must take to affirm that the state is present and firm in taking action against groups that seek to disrupt the unity and integrity of the Indonesian nation,” he emphasized.
