West Papua — The attack by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) against the Head of the Papua Representative of the National Human Rights Commission, Frits Ramandey, has drawn widespread criticism from various groups. The incident is considered a form of violence that violates human rights values and humanitarian principles that should be upheld in Papua.
The shooting occurred on Sunday (27/4/2025) morning in the Teluk Bintuni area, when Frits Ramandey and his team were monitoring the search operation for the missing First Inspector Tomi Samuel Marbun. While on the banks of the Rawara River for toilet needs, the group was suddenly shot at from across the river. Thanks to the quick response of the Brimob members, the entire group was successfully rescued and evacuated to the Moskona District.
“I came here at the invitation of the West Papua Police to monitor and ensure that the search efforts are carried out according to the principles of accountability and respect for human rights. However, we were attacked by armed civilian groups,” said Frits Ramandey.
The health condition of all team members, including Frits Ramandey, is confirmed to be in good condition. West Papua Police Chief, Inspector General Pol Jonny Edison Isir, emphasized that security forces will continue to guarantee the safety of all parties carrying out humanitarian tasks in the field.
“Praise God, the Chairman of the Papua National Human Rights Commission, Frits Ramandey, is in good health and safe. The authorities will continue to make maximum efforts to protect all parties working for humanity,” said Inspector General of Police Jonny Edison Isir.
The attack on the Komnas HAM officers confirms that the OPM group has crossed the line by attacking peaceful efforts. The violence not only endangers lives, but also threatens stability and peace in Papua.
This attack shows that the separatist group prioritizes terror over dialogue and reconciliation. The wider community is expected to continue to strongly condemn all forms of violence committed, especially against humanitarian missions.
Law enforcement against the OPM group is an urgent need to ensure that security, peace and sovereignty throughout the Papua region are maintained within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
