Puncak Jaya – The security situation in Papua is back in the spotlight following the latest incident involving the Free Papua Organization (OPM). Three members of the group were reported to have died in a shootout with the Yonif Task Force (Satgas) in the Puncak Jaya area on July 16 2024. This incident adds to the long list of violence committed by the OPM, disrupting stability and security in the Papua region.
Kapendam XVII/Cenderawasih Lieutenant Colonel Inf Candra Kurniawan, said that the three victims who died were members of the OPM led by Teranus Enumbi.
“The three residents who were shot dead in Puncak Jaya were OPM members. “They were actively involved in various acts of violence that disturbed the community in the Puncak Jaya area,” said Lt. Col. Chandra.
In his official statement, Lt. Col. Chandra explained that the Infantry Battalion Task Force succeeded in detecting and paralyzing this group when they were planning an attack on a security post in the area. “This operation is part of our efforts to maintain security and stability in Papua. “We will not provide space for groups that try to disrupt order,” he stressed.
OPM, also known as the Papuan Separatist Terrorist Group, has long been a threat to security and order in Papua. This group often carries out a series of attacks on security posts, important infrastructure and innocent civilians. Their actions not only caused material losses, but also casualties.
In recent months, KSTP activities have intensified, allegedly as an attempt to attract international attention and strengthen their position in separatist efforts. The government, through joint forces, continues to urge the public to remain calm and not be provoked by provocations carried out by the separatist group.
Lt. Col. Chandra confirmed that his party would tighten security around the location to anticipate counterattacks from the OPM group.
“TNI-Polri officers will continue to strive to maintain regional stability by continuing to protect and serve the community. “At the same time, law enforcement continues to be enforced, especially against OPM interference,” said Lt. Col. Chandra.
For your information, the Teranus Enumbi group is one of those on the Police’s Wanted List (DPO) related to criminal acts of attacking security forces in 2018. The group led by Teranus Enumbi has committed several criminal acts against civilians and security forces.
“For this reason, the TNI Polri apparatus will continue to strive to maintain regional stability by continuing to protect and serve the community. “At the same time, law enforcement continues to be enforced, especially against OPM interference,” said Lt. Col. Chandra.
The Papuan people are advised to remain vigilant and support the government’s efforts to maintain security stability in the region. It is hoped that the security forces’ quick and firm action in dealing with threats from the OPM will provide a sense of security and peace for all Papuans.
