Papua Conflict: Komnas HAM Emphasises Law Enforcement and Victim Recovery
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has emphasised the importance of strengthening professional and transparent law enforcement, as well as accelerating victim recovery, in handling the conflict in Papua as part of efforts to maintain security stability and community protection.
Komnas HAM Commissioner Saurlin P Siagian stated in Jakarta on Thursday that monitoring has been conducted at several conflict points, including Asmat and Boven Digoel in South Papua, involving coordination across ministries/institutions, security apparatus, and relevant parties on the ground.
In the case of the shooting of civilians in Dolok Village, Agats District, Asmat Regency on 27 September 2025, Komnas HAM found that one victim died from a gunshot wound and three other residents were injured by bullet fragments. The incident is suspected to involve members of Satgas 123 Rajawali.
“We recommend that Pangdam XVII/Cenderawasih oversee the legal process by Denpom Merauke to ensure it proceeds professionally, transparently, and accountably,” Saurlin said.
Meanwhile, in the shooting incident involving a pilot and co-pilot at Korowai Batu Airport, Boven Digoel Regency, Komnas HAM noted weaknesses in the security of public facilities.
Komnas HAM recommends that Polri strengthen security in vulnerable areas, particularly pioneer airports, with an approach that considers local wisdom and Papua’s geographical conditions.
In Southwest Papua, Head of the Komnas HAM Papua Secretariat Frits Ramandey revealed preliminary findings in the case of the murder of two health workers on 16 March, indicating strong evidence of planning.
Komnas HAM also found post-incident search operations that resulted in the arrest of 12 residents, as well as allegations of torture against 11 individuals who have now been released and are undergoing treatment.
In addition to law enforcement aspects, humanitarian approaches continue to be strengthened. Komnas HAM has been involved as a mediator in negotiation processes, including the return of several parties previously listed as wanted persons (DPO).
Komnas HAM also noted the presence of displaced persons in several villages, particularly in the Babusbama and Tambrauw areas, who require accelerated repatriation and social recovery.
According to Komnas HAM, synergy between the central government, regional authorities, security apparatus, and community figures is key to ensuring comprehensive conflict handling, not only through security approaches but also social recovery and human rights protection.
Strengthening internal oversight, accountable law enforcement, and dialogue approaches are also important to prevent violence escalation and maintain public trust in the state.