GKI Pastor Killed in Intan Jaya, Human Rights Minister Urges TNI-Polri Attention

Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai has expressed deep concern over the death of a pastor from the Evangelical Christian Church (GKI) in a shooting incident in Intan Jaya Regency, Papua. He stated that the recurring loss of life in Papua must be taken seriously by all parties. The shooting of the pastor drew attention after it was claimed by the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Organisation, while authorities are still investigating the incident. According to the Human Rights Minister, the continuing civilian casualties in Papua must become a serious concern for all parties. “Regarding the shooting of the pastor in Intan Jaya and Papua, we ask the TNI Commander and the National Police Chief to control their personnel serving in Papua,” Pigai stressed in a statement on Wednesday (1/7/2026). He assessed that the protection of civilians must be a priority in every effort to maintain security in Papua, so that no more citizens become victims amid the conflict. Pigai also highlighted the high number of civilian casualties continuing to fall in Papua. According to him, this situation cannot be considered normal because it concerns the right to life of citizens guaranteed by the constitution. “Almost every day innocent civilians die,” he said. He emphasised that the state has an obligation to ensure public safety, while also encouraging the resolution of various issues in Papua by prioritising respect for human rights. Furthermore, Pigai stressed the importance of synergy between security forces, local governments, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and the community in creating a safe and conducive situation. He believes that a human rights-oriented approach is key to reducing civilian casualties and building public trust in the state. The Ministry of Human Rights affirmed that it will continue to monitor developments in Papua and coordinate with relevant ministries and institutions to ensure that any alleged human rights violations receive attention and are handled in accordance with legal provisions. Pigai added that his office received a direct report from the Regent of Intan Jaya regarding the discovery of the body, which had previously been held by the TNI since 29 June 2026. “On 1 July 2026, the victim was found with five gunshot wounds to the body, slash wounds on the body, and one ear missing. So I once again ask TNI/Polri Headquarters to evaluate the military deployment in Papua. The TNI Commander and National Police Chief should be able to control their personnel and carry out a transparent legal process,” Pigai asserted. Pigai expressed concern that the recent wave of deaths in Papua could have a fatal impact, sparking massive resistance from the entire population. “I received a report that the Regent of Intan Jaya took off his shirt at the location where the body was found, which is a strong signal that massive resistance from all Papuan people could occur. In the last few months, several regents have wept openly in front of the people over the bodies of dozens who died in Puncak and civilians shot in Intan Jaya,” he concluded.