The Indonesian military continues to intensify its operations in West Papua, leading lately to increased displacement of indigenous communities and severe human rights abuses. Recent reports from the conflict-ridden region of Intan Jaya in Papua province have raised serious concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire between the Indonesian National Army (TNI) and the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB). Reports also indicate that the military has seized land belonging to the Moni Tribe in Intan Jaya Regency, without the consent or agreement of the indigenous community. The land, located in Silatugapa Village, is intended for the construction of a new military battalion. This move has sparked outrage among local communities and human rights organisations. The Moni Tribe, like many other indigenous groups in Papua, relies heavily on the forest for their livelihoods and cultural practices. The military’s presence in the area could severely restrict their access to vital resources and traditional lands.
Since 18 October 2024, the Indonesian military has been engaged in a counterattack against the TPNPB Kodap VIII Intan Jaya troops in Sugapa District. While there were no reported casualties on either side during the initial clashes, the situation has escalated, leading to casualties and significant civilian displacement and further potential human rights violations. Civilians in Titigi, Eknemba, and Ndugisiga Villages have fled to the forest due to the deployment of military troops in their areas. Schools have been closed, and civilian homes and infrastructure have been damaged by gunfire. The operation have been ongoing until at least 25 October.
On 1 November 2024, an incident occurred when a 27-year-old civilian, Justinus Sani, was shot by the TNI in the village of Joparu. The shooting, allegedly carried out with a sniper rifle from a distance of 400 meters, left Sani injured.The military has also been accused of using excessive force, arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings. In addition, the establishment of military posts in civilian areas has disrupted the daily lives of communities and limited their freedom of movement.
Human rights organisations have expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict and the escalating human rights abuses. Civilians, including women, children, and the elderly, have been caught in the crossfire, with many suffering from injuries, displacement, and even death.
Local communities and human rights organisations have called on the Indonesian government to immediately cease military operations in Papua, respect the rights of indigenous communities, and hold perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable. They have also urged the international community to increase pressure on the Indonesian government to address the crisis in Papua. Key recommendations include:
Independent Investigation: A thorough investigation into the civilian casualties, conducted by impartial authorities.
Transparency: Public disclosure of the number of military personnel deployed to Papua and the legal basis for their operations.
Adherence to International Law: Strict adherence to international humanitarian law and human rights law.
Peaceful Dialogue: The facilitation of dialogue between the government and the TPNPB to find a peaceful solution.
Photos of victim Justinus Sani
Photos of damaged house and land grabbing Moni tribe
