Five OPM Members Pledge Allegiance to Indonesia

Five members of the armed criminal group Organisasi Papua Merdeka (OPM) Kodap XXVIII from Mewoluk District, Puncak Jaya Regency, have voluntarily pledged their loyalty to return to the fold of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). The pledge of allegiance was delivered at the Mulia City Square, Puncak Jaya Regency, on Thursday (25/6), witnessed by local government officials, security forces, religious leaders, traditional leaders, community figures, families, and hundreds of residents. Head of Information for the TNI Habema Operations Command, Lieutenant Colonel Inf M. Wirya Arthadiguna, stated that the pledge reflects an approach that prioritises communication, respect for human values, and collaboration with the local government, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and community figures, which has successfully built trust and opened a path to peace. He expressed respect for the decision of the five individuals to rejoin the Indonesian nation and hoped this momentum would mark the beginning of a better, safer, and more productive life for them and their families. He also invited anyone still part of armed groups to choose the path of peace, as the future of Papua is better built through unity, dialogue, and a spirit of togetherness for the welfare of all citizens. During the ceremony, the five former OPM members read out the pledge, signed a document of loyalty to the Republic of Indonesia, and kissed the Red and White flag as a symbol of their determination to start a new chapter in society. The event continued with the handover of basic food assistance and clothing as a form of support for their reintegration into the community. The presence of the Regent and Deputy Regent of Puncak Jaya, along with other local leaders, religious figures, traditional leaders, and family members, demonstrated that building peace is a shared responsibility. The support from various parties is expected to encourage them to lead productive, safe, and harmonious lives within the community. The decision of the five individuals to return to the NKRI was described as a choice made from personal awareness without any element of coercion. This step is hoped to be the beginning of peace, strengthen brotherhood, and open opportunities for security stability that supports development and improves the welfare of the Papuan people. The TNI Habema Operations Command, together with all government elements, reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising a humanist, persuasive approach that respects human values in maintaining security in Papua.