Deputy Home Affairs Minister Praises Swift Local Government Action to Evacuate Residents Following Smart Air Shooting
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk expressed her appreciation for the swift action taken by the South Papua Provincial Government and regents across the region in handling displaced persons. The response covers teachers and healthcare workers on duty following the shooting incident involving two aircraft pilots.
The prompt response was deemed crucial for safeguarding government personnel and ensuring public services continue to operate.
“We extend our gratitude and appreciation to the Governor of South Papua and the regents throughout the South Papua region who acted swiftly in handling displaced persons, including teachers and healthcare workers serving in the area,” said Ribka in a written statement on Thursday (19/2/2026).
According to her, rapid coordination between local governments and relevant parties has been key to the initial handling of the situation on the ground. The Ministry of Home Affairs continues to maintain intensive communication to ensure follow-up measures are well-directed and coordinated.
“The Ministry of Home Affairs continues to build coordination with local government authorities for subsequent handling measures,” she affirmed.
Beyond managing displaced persons, Ribka stressed the importance of maintaining basic services for the public. She requested that education and healthcare activities continue, including through facilities available in the Highland Papua and South Papua provinces.
Ribka also reminded all parties to keep the situation safe and under control to prevent panic among the public.
“We must ensure the community remains safe and the situation stays under control,” she said.
She called upon all regional leaders, the Papua People’s Representative Council (DPRP), the Papua People’s Assembly (MRP), the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda), as well as religious and community leaders in South Papua and Yahukimo Regency in Highland Papua Province to jointly maintain public calm.
“To the Governor and Deputy Governor, DPRP, MRP, Regents and Deputy Regents, Forkopimda, DPRD, religious leaders and community figures of South Papua, as well as Yahukimo Regency in Highland Papua Province, we hope they can help ensure the public does not panic,” Ribka stated.
In line with efforts to safeguard government personnel and keep the situation under control, the South Papua Provincial Government reported anticipatory measures in the healthcare sector.
According to the South Papua Governor’s report, healthcare services at four community health centres in Boven Digoel Regency — Yaniruma, Firiwage, Kombay, and Manggelum — have been temporarily suspended.
Healthcare workers at all four centres have been evacuated to Tanah Merah, the capital of Boven Digoel Regency.
With synergy between the central government, local authorities, and all elements of society, Ribka expressed optimism that the situation will remain under control and public services can continue to operate as they should.