Bloody Clash in Adonara, NTT, Triggered by Territorial Dispute

East Flores Police Chief AKBP Adhitya Octorio Putra stated that the bloody clash in Adonara, which claimed three lives, was triggered by a long-standing territorial boundary dispute between Dusun Bele, Waiburak Village, and Dusun Lewonara, Narasaosina Village, in East Adonara, East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). “The incident was triggered by a boundary issue that has been going on for quite a long time and is a latent conflict that requires a wise resolution,” Adhitya told CNNIndonesia.com on Sunday (19/8) evening. He conveyed that the bloody clash was not a sudden occurrence but has deep historical roots concerning the territorial boundaries of the two villages. On that basis, he assessed that a resolution cannot be achieved solely through a legal approach. Adhitya emphasised that the conflict must prioritise the customary and cultural values inherited from the ancestors of the Adonara community. “The approach taken prioritises a humanist approach and local wisdom to de-escalate the conflict,” he explained. He expressed hope that community leaders can build good communication and synergise with law enforcement to resolve the conflict so it does not become prolonged. Additionally, Adhitya urged the public to remain calm and not be easily provoked by unverified information, especially that circulating on social media. “We invite the entire community to jointly maintain peace. Do not be easily influenced by issues that can worsen the situation. Let us prioritise dialogue, mutual respect, and revive the spirit of brotherhood that has been the identity of the East Flores community for a long time,” he said. The bloody clash between youth groups from Narasaosina Village and Waiburak Village on Saturday (18/8) morning claimed three lives. In addition, 20 houses were burned by the mob and seven people were injured.