On 23 January 2023, Papuan journalist Victor Mambor became the target of a bomb attack at his residence. This incident, which threatened him and underscored the dangers faced by journalists in Papua, has sparked significant controversy and criticism over the handling of the investigation by law enforcement.
The case initially drew widespread attention when the North Jayapura Police issued an Investigation Termination Order (SP3) on 1 March 2024, citing insufficient evidence. This decision prompted a pretrial motion filed by the Press Legal Aid Institute and the Papua Press Legal Aid Association, seeking to challenge the SP3 and demand a more thorough investigation.
On 8 July 2024, Judge Zaka Talpatty of the Jayapura District Court rejected the pretrial application, affirming the validity of the SP3. The judge ruled that the evidence collected, which included forensic analysis, witness testimonies, and CCTV footage, did not meet the necessary standards to continue the investigation. He stated that while investigators had gathered more than two pieces of evidence, their quality did not sufficiently support the claims of criminal activity.
The ruling has faced significant backlash from various human rights advocates and journalist organisations. Gustaf Kawer, Director of the Papuan Association of Human Rights Advocates (PAHAM Papua), expressed deep concern over the police’s handling of the case. Kawer criticised the police for not involving specialised units like Densus 88, which deals with terrorism, and for their inadequate investigation that led to the issuance of the SP3. He argued that the case was treated with undue leniency, setting a dangerous precedent for future acts of terror against journalists.
Victor Mambor’s lawyer, Simon Pattiradjawane, along with other advocates, stressed the real and ongoing threats to journalists in Papua. They pointed out the historical context of violence against the press in the region, emphasising that Mambor’s case is part of a broader pattern of intimidation and unresolved attacks. The inability to identify and prosecute the perpetrators, they argue, further endangers the press and undermines public trust in the police.
Journalists like Paskalis Keogap highlighted the broader implications of the case for press freedom in Papua. Keogap pointed to previous unresolved cases of violence against journalists, including murder and physical intimidation, which have created an environment of fear and impunity. He called for a more empowered and serious approach from law enforcement to protect journalists and ensure justice.
The controversy has also sparked solidarity actions among journalists in Papua. The Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) and other journalist groups have organised protests and silent actions, demanding justice for Mambor and greater protection for the press. These actions underline the urgent need for a transparent and accountable investigation process.
Despite the court’s decision, there remains a possibility for the investigation to be reopened if new evidence emerges. However, the current outcome has left many in the journalistic community and human rights circles deeply dissatisfied, fearing that justice for Victor Mambor, and by extension, press freedom in Papua, remains elusive.
Case information: https://humanrightsmonitor.org/news/investigation-into-bomb-attack-against-papuan-journalist-victor-mambor-officially-closed/
