JAKARTA – The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has refuted allegations by the Papua Justice and Integrity of Humanity Foundation (YKKMP) regarding the presence of security personnel in Yuguru Village, Mebarok District, Nduga Regency, calling such claims a form of intimidation. This clarification was issued in response to what the TNI described as an imbalanced and potentially misleading narrative about security operations in conflict-prone areas.
Brigadier General Kristomei Sianturi, Head of the TNI Information Center, stated that the establishment of military posts in Yuguru is solely intended to protect residents from the violence of armed separatist groups that have repeatedly targeted civilians.
“The presence of TNI posts in the area is meant to cut off communication and movement of OPM factions and to protect Yuguru residents from the intimidation, threats, and brutality of OPM, such as attacks on teachers, healthcare workers, and gold panners in recent incidents,” said Kristomei Sianturi.
He further asserted that accusations of house demolitions and occupation of public facilities are part of a propaganda effort aimed at discrediting the TNI. According to him, such narratives are commonly used by OPM sympathizers to distort the truth.
“These kinds of statements are typically spread by OPM factions and their supporters as propaganda and to intimidate local communities,” Kristomei added.
In line with this, Commander of Regional Military Command (Kodam) XVII/Cenderawasih, Major General TNI Rudi Puruwito, S.E., M.M., emphasized that the TNI does not tolerate any form of violence against civilians. He strongly condemned the heinous actions of OPM, particularly the attacks on educators and healthcare workers in Anggruk District.
“Attacks against educators and healthcare workers are crimes against humanity that cannot be justified under any circumstances,” stated Maj. Gen. Rudi.
On April 8, another attack targeted gold panners, resulting in civilian casualties. Kristomei Sianturi firmly denied the narrative claiming the victims were TNI soldiers, calling it a hoax deliberately spread to manipulate public perception.
“The propaganda circulated by OPM and its sympathizers, claiming the victims were TNI soldiers, is an attempt to justify their brutal actions by manipulating information. In truth, the victims were innocent civilians,” Kristomei concluded.
The TNI reaffirmed its commitment to remain at the forefront in maintaining stability and ensuring the safety of the Papuan people. Ongoing coordination with law enforcement agencies continues to be strengthened to bring perpetrators of violence to justice and restore a sense of security in affected areas.
