Papua Separatists Claim Killing of Five Workers, Declare 'War' in Tolikara

The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM) has claimed responsibility for the killing of five construction workers in Tolikara, Papua Highlands, on Sunday, declaring the attack signals the start of war in the area.

TPNPB-OPM spokesperson Sebby Sambom stated the action was carried out by units under the command of Terinus Numbi and Botak Wanimbo. He claimed the attack was ordered by the organisation’s leadership and that the group would continue its armed resistance until its political objectives are achieved.

Sambom alleged the five victims, who were working as builders, were disguised intelligence operatives. This claim could not be independently verified. “We declare that war has begun in Tolikara. Tolikara, which was previously quiet, is now at war. So we will not stop until we are independent,” Sambom said.

Head of Information for Kodam XVII/Cenderawasih, Colonel Inf. Tri Purwanto, stated on Monday that four of the five bodies had been identified. The attack on the workers at the PT SHJ camp in Woniki District, Tolikara Regency, occurred on Sunday evening.

The four identified victims were named as Arman Sibarani, Erlin Aritonang, Alfons, and Barengga. “Three bodies have been evacuated and are now at Mulia Regional Hospital in Puncak Jaya Regency, while one body has been evacuated to Karubaga. One body is reported to still be at the crime scene,” he said.

Colonel Purwanto explained that the attack on the PT SHJ camp took place while the workers were resting. Kodam XVII/Cenderawasih condemned the violence, which claimed the lives of civilians working on infrastructure projects for the benefit of the Papuan people. TNI and Polri personnel are currently pursuing the perpetrators to ensure the security situation remains conducive and to provide a sense of safety to the community. The camp housed ten workers, and the fate of three others remains unknown.