Komnas HAM urges investigation into pregnant woman shot dead in Papua

The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) is urging an investigation into the death of a pregnant woman, MD, who was shot while inside her home in Sugapa, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua. Komnas HAM Chairperson Anis Hidayah stated on Sunday that law enforcement officials must go directly to Sugapa District to conduct forensic examinations of the location and interview witnesses to ensure justice for the victim and her family. “Regarding this incident, Komnas HAM expresses its stance and recommends an independent, transparent, and impartial investigation, not solely relying on unilateral claims from one of the parties involved in the armed contact,” she said. She explained that based on the commission’s monitoring, the incident occurred on Thursday evening (2/7) during an exchange of fire between security forces and an armed group in Sugapa District. MD and her unborn baby died after being struck by a bullet. Komnas HAM condemned the tragedy. Anis stressed that the right to life is the most fundamental right and cannot be derogated, even in emergency situations or armed conflict. “The death of a civilian resulting from a security operation or armed contact constitutes a violation of this right and must be investigated,” she said. The death of MD, she added, serves as a reminder that behind the statistics of victims in the Papua conflict are people, families, and communities who have suffered loss. An independent and accountable investigation must be pursued to prevent similar tragedies from recurring. “Without a transparent legal process leading to clear accountability, this situation risks perpetuating a pattern of impunity, which ultimately erodes public trust in state institutions and the conflict resolution process itself,” she said. In addition to the investigation, Komnas HAM is urging the state to facilitate recovery for the victim’s family, including psychosocial support and advocacy for the right to compensation under the applicable legal framework. The commission is also requesting unimpeded access to conduct inquiries at the scene, with the victim and her family, and to relevant documents. Furthermore, Komnas HAM is demanding an immediate halt to armed contact in residential areas by both security forces and armed groups, and is pushing for a comprehensive evaluation of the security approach in Papua. “Encourage and facilitate spaces for dialogue between the central government, regional governments, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and Papuan civil society representatives as part of a long-term conflict resolution,” Anis added.