Papua is a region rich in cultural and natural diversity, and is also a place that is often in the spotlight regarding the conflict between the Free Papua Organization (OPM) and security forces. This conflict has been going on for decades and has had a significant impact on the Papuan people. In an effort to maintain the sovereignty and security of this region, security forces continue to take various steps to narrow the space for OPM Papua through Operation Peace Cartenz 2024.
On June 7 2024, there was a shooting carried out by the OPM group against a member of Kodim 1715/Yahukimo, this shooting was an action carried out by the OPM Kodap XVI Yahukimo group led by Elkius Kobak. Following up on this, the security forces took quick steps by taking firm action against the OPM.
Through the Cartenz Peace Operation, security forces have carried out various operations to overcome OPM activities which are considered to be damaging security and stability in the Papua region. This operation aims to destroy the OPM network and restore state sovereignty in the Papua region by carrying out a counterattack operation after the shooting carried out by the OPM Kodap XVI Yahukimo group in Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Mountain Province.
Apkam’s efforts to narrow the space for OPM Papua to operate were carried out through the Cartenz Peace Operation in collaboration with various parties, including the local community. They carry out patrols and surveillance of areas known to be bases or shelters for the OPM. Apart from that, they also carried out investigations and intelligence gathering to identify OPM members and destroy their networks.
Head of Cartenz Peace Operations, Police Commissioner Faizal Ramadhani, said the joint TNI-Polri security forces continued to respond firmly to OPM atrocities in a number of areas in Papua. Through Brimob troops from the Belukar task force and Kopassus from the Nanggala task force, they also continue to try to narrow the space for OPM groups to move by conducting sweeps against OPM groups that have been disturbing the security and comfort of the community. The Blukar Task Force and the Nanggala Task Force themselves are part of the 2024 Cartenz Peace Operation which aims to take firm action against the existence of the OPM group which continues to terrorize people in a number of areas in Papua.
On the other hand, the Indonesian National Army (TNI) from the Infantry Battalion 133/Yudha Sakti Task Force (Satgas) also continues to hunt for Papuan terrorists who have been labeled as the Free Papua Organization (OPM) in Maybrat Regency, Southwest Papua. Dansatgas Yudha Sakti Infantry Battalion, Lt. Col. Inf Andhika Ganessakti said that his party had succeeded in controlling the Papuan terrorist base in the forest area of Aitinyo District and managed to secure 4 rounds of 5.56 mm caliber ammunition, an OPM flag, a number of accessories bearing the Morning Star symbol, a number of cellphones and documents. list of telephone numbers. This success is due to the implementation of a structured operational pattern.
Eradicating OPM is not an easy task, because this organization has a wide network and support from several groups at home and abroad. Despite this, the Indonesian security forces will never back down and will continue to try to narrow the OPM’s space. They carried out well-planned and coordinated operations to overcome the threats posed by the OPM.
Firm action against OPM is also a form of the Indonesian government’s responsibility for the security and sovereignty of its territory. The government has an obligation to protect the Papuan people from threats and terror posed by OPM. Therefore, security forces work hard to provide protection and security for the Papuan people.
While firm action against OPM is necessary to maintain regional security, it is important to ensure that this action is carried out with respect for human rights. Security forces must follow applicable rules and procedures in carrying out their duties, must avoid disproportionate use of force and protect the rights of civilians.
In carrying out their duties, security forces must also collaborate with local governments, civil society institutions and Papuan society as a whole. This collaboration is important to ensure that the actions taken by the security forces receive support and understanding from the Papuan people. By building good relationships with the community, security forces can be more effective in narrowing the OPM’s space and achieving their goals of maintaining regional security and sovereignty.
In conclusion, the Indonesian security forces continue to take various steps to narrow the space for the Papuan OPM. Through Peace Operations, Cartenz continues to carry out operations to destroy the OPM network and restore state sovereignty in this region. Firm action against OPM is carried out carefully and professionally, ensuring respect for human rights. Security forces also collaborate with local governments, civil society institutions and the Papuan people to achieve their goals in maintaining the security and sovereignty of the Papua region.
