Papuan rebel attacks threaten stability, researcher warns
Heri Herdiawanto, a researcher at the Geopolitics and Defense Studies Center of Al-Azhar Indonesia University, condemned the incidents and warned that continued violence could undermine security and economic activity.
The West Papua National Liberation Army, known as TPNPB, attacked a rebel command post linked to Kodap (Regional Defense Command) XXXIII/Rumana in Tambrauw District, Southwest Papua, and in the Grasberg area of Tembagapura, Central Papua.
The attacks occurred on March 8 and March 11, according to information confirmed by Heri in Jakarta on Monday.
He said the incidents resulted in the deaths of two civilians and violated humanitarian principles, worsening security conditions in Papua and raising concerns about the safety of local communities.
“The victims in this incident were civilians working as honorary employees of the local government,” Heri said, noting that ordinary residents who should be protected instead became casualties of the conflict.
He warned that recurring violence could create fear among residents and disrupt daily life across affected areas.
According to Heri, instability caused by armed attacks can affect multiple sectors, including public services, education and local economic activities.
“When violence occurs repeatedly, communities live in fear,” he said, adding that such conditions could slow regional development and weaken public confidence in the security situation.
He stressed that protecting civilians must remain the top priority in efforts to manage conflict in Papua.
All parties involved should exercise restraint and pursue more constructive approaches aimed at creating a stable and secure environment for local communities, he said.
Violence will not resolve the underlying problems, Heri added, emphasizing the need to build trust, ensure civilian safety and support sustainable development in Papua.
He said improving living conditions and maintaining security were essential to ensuring the welfare of communities across the region.
Heri also urged all sides to uphold the principles of Indonesia’s state ideology, Pancasila, including humanitarian values, unity and deliberation in resolving differences.
“Conflict only leaves grief and suffering. Lasting peace will open the door to development and prosperity for the people of Papua,” he said.
Related news: TNI-Polri vow firm action against armed groups in Papua
Related news: Indonesia evacuates mining workers in Papua after armed attack
Translator: Benardy F, Rahmad Nasution