Human Rights Minister Urges Independent Investigation into Puncak Shooting Incident
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has urged an independent investigation into the shooting incident in Kemburu District, Puncak Regency, Central Papua, which killed at least five civilians, including children, to ensure the facts are uncovered and accountability is established.
According to Pigai, an investigation by the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) is crucial to provide clarity amid limited official information circulating.
“Komnas HAM must immediately conduct an investigation,” he stated in his remarks in Jakarta on Thursday.
Additionally, Pigai requested that the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) promptly provide clarification on the incident as part of transparency in handling conflicts that impact civilians.
“Regarding the incident in Puncak Regency that claimed lives and caused other losses to civilians, I request that the TNI immediately provide clarification. Over the casualties, including children and toddlers, I express deep concern and condolences. There must be no civilian casualties in the conflict between the TNI and the TPN OPM,” he said firmly.
He stressed that armed conflicts must not victimise civilians, so protection of the population must be the top priority in every security operation.
In that context, Pigai also pushed for the temporary halt of military operations in areas potentially affecting civilians, especially in displacement zones.
“We request the temporary suspension of all military operations in areas that could impact civilians, particularly in displacement areas. Protection of civilians must be the top priority,” he said.
According to him, this incident once again demonstrates the importance of applying international humanitarian law principles in every operation, especially to ensure no violations of civilian rights occur.
He added that if Kemburu District is a safe zone, then military activities in the area must be treated with serious attention and thoroughly evaluated.
Pigai assessed that strengthening investigation mechanisms and transparency is an important step to prevent the recurrence of violence against civilians in the Papua conflict.