On 27 February 2025, members of the Indonesian National Army (TNI) arbitrarily arrested Mr Goliath Sani, 19, and a friend following an armed clash between the military and the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) in the Mamba Village, Sugapa District, Intan Jaya Regency, Papua Tengah Province, at around 04:30 pm. The TNI members released his friend while Mr Sani was detained at the TNI Yonif 509 military post in Mamba for one day. Relatives believe that Goliath Sani was tortured and subsequently executed.
On 28 February 2025, fully armed TNI members brought the body to the Yokatapa Regional Hospital in Sugapa, using an armoured vehicle (see video below, source: independent HRD). His remains were eventually handed over to his family in Mamba on 1 March 2025 (see video below, source: independent HRD).
Case Background
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 civilian fatalities, and internal displacement.
HRM observes that violence has escalated significantly in Mamba Village, Sugapa District, amid intensifying armed conflict. Security forces, particularly the military, have increased repression against civilians, leaving residents vulnerable to arbitrary detention, torture, and unlawful executions.
Recent reports from the conflict-ridden region of Intan Jaya in the Papua Tengah province have raised serious concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire between the TNI and the TPNPB. The TNI continues to intensify its operations in Intan Jaya, leading lately to increased displacement of indigenous communities and severe human rights abuses. Military posts have been established in and near residential areas, significantly raising the risk for human rights violations to occur.
Reports also indicate that the military 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 West Papua, relies heavily on the forest for their livelihoods and cultural practices. The military’s presence in the area severely restricts their access to vital resources and traditional lands.
