The security disturbances carried out by the Free Papua Organization (OPM) have created complex dynamics and are often difficult to resolve. One crucial aspect of this conflict is the problem of supplying weapons and ammunition to the OPM. This supply of weapons and ammunition not only prolongs the conflict, but also worsens humanitarian conditions and threatens security in the region. Therefore, firm action against suppliers of weapons and ammunition to the OPM is very important to handle the Papua conflict effectively and sustainably.
Papua, previously known as Irian Jaya, is a region rich in natural resources, including gold, copper and natural gas mines. However, indigenous Papuans often feel that they do not benefit fairly from the exploitation of these natural resources, and this has created deep dissatisfaction with the Indonesian government.
OPM’s main goal is to achieve West Papua’s independence from Indonesia. Although the OPM has not always been united in their goals or methods, they have become a symbol of resistance to the Indonesian government and have been involved in numerous violent incidents. The conflict between the Indonesian government and the OPM has resulted in serious human rights violations, including killings, enforced disappearances, and persecution. Efforts to resolve the conflict have been proposed by various parties, but it is often difficult to reach an agreement that is acceptable to all parties involved.
One of the factors complicating the conflict is the presence of weapons and ammunition suppliers to the OPM. These suppliers can be domestic or foreign, and they can have political, economic, or ideological motives for supporting OPM. However, whatever the motive, this supply of weapons and ammunition strengthens the OPM’s ability to launch attacks against the Indonesian government and increases the intensity of the conflict.
Recently, Bripda Aske Mabel, a police officer assigned to the Yalimo Police, Central Papua, ran away carrying 4 long-barreled Chinese AK type firearms into the forest. Regarding the escape of Brigadier Aske Mabel carrying four weapons, the Papua Police confirmed this.
According to the Head of Propam, Kombes Roy Satya, as a result of this incident, the Papua Police will send a team to investigate the incident. Commissioner Roy also emphasized that all matters relating to the incident would be examined.
On the other hand, the police again arrested a supplier of firearms to the Free Papua Organization in Jayapura, Papua. The perpetrator was named Sarius Inday (58), who is a state civil servant (ASN). Head of Cartenz-2024 Peace Operations, Commissioner Faizal Ramadhani, revealed that the arrest of Sarius Indey was the result of the development of an investigation into Petrus Oyaitouw, who had previously been arrested.
Meanwhile, Head of the Public Relations Task Force for OPS Damai Cartenz-2024, AKBP Bayu Suseno, suspects that Sarius and Petrus Oyaitouw are involved in a network supplying firearms to the OPM in the Tabi area. Currently, both of them are being questioned at the Cartenz Peace Task Force Post for further investigation.
Firm action against suppliers of weapons and ammunition to the OPM is becoming increasingly important considering the negative impacts it causes. First of all, this supply of arms and ammunition prolongs the conflict and prevents a peaceful resolution. With strong military support, the OPM is more difficult to negotiate with and tends to choose the path of violence.
In addition, the supply of weapons and ammunition to OPM also increases security risks for civilians in Papua. The armed conflict between the Indonesian government and the OPM has caused many casualties and suffering among the local population. Continued arms supplies will only exacerbate these conditions and increase tensions in the region.
In overcoming the problem of supplying weapons and ammunition to the OPM, the government can take various firm steps. First of all, the government needs to improve border security to prevent the smuggling of weapons and ammunition into the Papua region. This could involve increased military patrols and strict checks on goods entering Papua.
The government also needs to work together with neighboring countries and international institutions to stop the flow of illegal weapons to the OPM. This cooperation could include the exchange of intelligence information, training of security personnel, and joint action to combat illegal arms trafficking in the region.
Apart from firm military and diplomatic action, the government also needs to improve social and economic conditions in Papua. It also requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach from the Indonesian government as well as support from the international community.
By taking these decisive steps, the Indonesian government can reduce the intensity of the conflict in Papua, protect the security of civilians, and create better conditions for a peaceful resolution. By effectively addressing the issue of arms and ammunition supplies, we can hope to see the much-desired peace and progress in Papua.
