On 16 October 2023, in Manokwari, West Papua Province, a resident named Melianus Iba was arrested for allegedly carrying out a shooting at an Indonesian Army Post in Aroba District, Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua Province, on 24 September 2023. Melkianus from KontraS Papua, an organisation that advocates for human rights, raised concerns about the arrest.
Melianus Iba was reportedly questioned by the Teluk Bintuni Regional Police without the presence of a legal representative, which raised questions about the validity of his confession. Melkianus from KontraS emphasised that Melianus Iba’s rights as a suspect, including the right to be accompanied by legal representation, should not have been disregarded, especially considering the potential punishment of over five years for his alleged actions.
KontraS Papua suspected that Melianus Iba may have been wrongfully arrested, citing witness statements that suggested this possibility. They also pointed out that the police should adhere to legal procedures and avoid relying solely on a suspect’s confession.
Detailed Case Data
Location: Manokwari
Region: Indonesia, Papua Barat Province, Manokwari, West Manokwari
Region: Indonesia, West Papua, Manokwari, West Manokwari
Total number of victims: 1
#
Number of Victims
Name, Details
Gender
Age
Group Affiliation
Violations
1.
1
Melianus Iba
male
unknown
Indigenous Peoples
arbitrary detention
Perpetrator: Indonesian Police
Perpetrator details: unknown
Issues: security force violence, indigenous peoples