Four OPM Members Return to NKRI, Surrender Weapons to TNI Task Force
Four members of the Free Papua Organisation (OPM) in Puncak Jaya Regency, Central Papua, have chosen to rejoin the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).
This commitment was marked by the surrender of four firearms to the Commander of the TNI Operation Command (Pangkoops) Habema, Brigadier General TNI Riyanto, during a national reintegration ceremony held at the Makodim 1714/Puncak Jaya courtyard.
Pangkoops TNI Habema, Brigadier General TNI Riyanto, expressed his appreciation for the courage shown by the four OPM members in deciding to return to the community.
“Courage is not only demonstrated when someone is able to take up arms, but also when they are brave enough to lay them down and choose a better life. Today is not about who wins or who loses. Today is about choosing the future,” Riyable stated in a statement received in Timika on Saturday.
Riyanto noted that the surrender of weapons is not the end of the process. The more important stages begin after their return, specifically how families and the community receive them, how the government provides assistance, and how all parties help them lead normal and dignified lives.
“The weapons surrendered today serve as a sign that an old path has been abandoned. After this, let us return to our families, build our villages, farm, work, worship, and together safeguard the future of Papua’s children. The path to peace is always open for our brothers who wish to return,” he added.
Riyanto emphasised that reintegration requires collaborative efforts between local governments, customary leaders, religious leaders, community figures, security forces, and, most importantly, families.
The four individuals are Bongkar Tabuni and Lipar Tabuni from OPM Kodap X/Tolikara, as well as Bejo Tabuni and Kopitua Tabuni from OPM Kodap XXVIII/Yambi. Kopitua Tabuni is known to serve as the Field Coordinator (Danops Wil) for OPM Kodap XXVIII/Yambi.
The surrendered weapons consist of one AR-15 5.56 mm rifle, one 9 mm revolver, one Trailside Sig Arms .22 LR pistol surrendered by Bejo Tabuni, and one 9 mm Combat pistol surrendered by Lipar Tabuni.