Ministry of Human Rights Condemns Civilian Killings in Yahukimo

The Ministry of Human Rights has condemned the alleged killing of civilians in Yahukimo, Papua Highlands, and urged all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further casualties amid the escalating armed conflict in the region. The alleged incident came to light after a video circulated on social media showing a shooting targeting civilians. Meanwhile, the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM) claimed to have killed three people it accused of being Indonesian military intelligence agents. Ministry spokesperson Thomas Harming Suwarta stressed that the protection of the right to life is a fundamental human rights principle that must be respected by all parties without exception, including in conflict situations. As a follow-up, the Ministry of Human Rights is coordinating through its West Papua Provincial Office, which covers the Papua Highlands region, to gather information about the incident. The ministry stated that this step is being taken to obtain a complete picture of the situation on the ground and to ensure that all parties prioritise de-escalation efforts to prevent further civilian casualties. Security forces are currently investigating the identities of the victims and the chronology of the event, with information still developing. The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has also condemned the actions that have once again targeted civilians. The Ministry of Human Rights affirmed that resolving the conflict in Papua must continue to prioritise respect for human rights and the protection of civilians.