On 6 May 2025, an attack involving heavy weapons occurred near the Kelanungin Village, Gome District, Puncak Regency, Papua Tengah Province, resulting in the death of an 18-year-old civilian, Mr Deris Kogoya, and serious injuries to a 21-year-old Mr Jemi Alom. The explosive was reportedly shot from a military post on the top of the Kelambuk Hill. Military members allegedly fired what was believed to be a rocket, bazooka, or mortar grenade at the victims. The incident occurred during increased security force presence in the regency due to preparations for the local regent’s inauguration ceremony.
Mr Deris Kogoya and Mr Jemi Alom travelled from Ilaga town to the Gome District by motorcycle. After parking at a church compound, they continued on foot toward Kelanungin Village. Around 09:30 am, they heard an explosion from the direction of the military post on Kelambuk Hill. According to Mr Alom, the explosion noise came from a rocket, bazooka, or mortar, resulting in the instant death of Mr Deris Kogoya at the site of the crime. Jemi Alom sustained serious injuries to his legs but managed to escape (see photos below; source: WPCC). He is currently receiving traditional medical treatment instead of professional healthcare at the public hospital due to fear of reprisals by military members.
The case raises concerns with regard to the adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law. The assault constitutes multiple violations of International Humanitarian Law. First, it violates the Principle of Distinction, which prohibits attacks on civilians not participating in hostilities, as both victims were unarmed civilians. Second, it contradicts the Principle of Proportionality, as the use of heavy explosive weapons in an area inhabited by civilians can cause potential excessive harm. The use of such weapons in civilian-populated areas is widely condemned by international human rights bodies due to the significant risk to non-combatants.
According to the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), both victims are civilians, not combatants, highlighting the particularly egregious nature of this indiscriminate attack against indigenous civilians.
Mr Deris Kogoya’s body was evacuated at the site of the crime
Mr Jemi Alom sustained a bleeding injury on both legs and feet
