Human rights minister urges probe into Central Papua fatal shooting

He specifically mentioned the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM), expressing confidence in its ability to provide the public with detailed information on the case amid limited official sources.

“Komnas HAM must immediately move to launch an investigation,” Pigai noted in a statement received in Jakarta on Thursday.

The minister also urged the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to provide clear explanations about the incident to ensure transparency and accountability.

“I would like to offer my deepest condolences for the lives lost, which included under-five children. There should be no civilians falling victim in clashes between TNI and Papuan armed separatist groups,” he added.

Pigai affirmed that it is always mandatory for the military to prioritize the safety of civilians in every operation.

“We call for a temporary halt to all military operations in regions where civilians could be at risk, especially in refugee zones. Protection for residents should remain the top priority,” he stated.

He went on to emphasize the incident in Kemburu as a stark reminder of the need for strict compliance with international humanitarian law during conflict to avoid violations of rights against civilian populations.

In this regard, the minister called for a thorough evaluation of all military activities in the region.

He then concluded by saying that greater efforts toward transparent investigations are essential to prevent a recurrence of violence against civilians in armed conflicts in Indonesia’s Papua region in the future.

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Translator: Devi Nindy, Tegar Nurfitra