Researcher: TPNPB attacks in Tambrauw-Grasberg disrupt social stability

Heri Herdiawanto, a researcher at the Geopolitics and Defence Studies Centre of Universitas Al-Azhar Indonesia (UAI), has stated that attacks by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) in Papua can disrupt development and social stability.

The group attacked the KSTP Kodap XXXIII/Rumana Post in Tambrauw District, South-West Papua and Grasberg, Tembagapura, Central Papua on 8 and 11 March 2026.

Herdiawanto condemned both incidents in a statement confirmed in Jakarta on Monday, noting that they resulted in two civilian deaths and that the violence violates humanitarian principles whilst worsening security conditions in Papua.

“The victims in this incident are civilians working as honorary employees of the local government. In other words, ordinary people who should be protected have instead become victims of conflict,” he said.

According to him, such acts of violence affect not only security but also have the potential to obstruct development and socio-economic activities in the region because public safety is compromised.

He also emphasised that the violence will affect various sectors of life, ranging from public services and education to community economic activities.

“When violence occurs repeatedly, people live in fear. This condition can impede regional development and weaken public confidence in security stability,” he stated.

Protection of civilians, he said, must be a priority in all efforts to address conflict in Papua. All parties are expected to exercise restraint and adopt more constructive approaches to create a conducive situation for Papua’s population.

“Violence will not resolve problems. What is needed are efforts to build trust, protect civilian safety, and ensure that development in Papua can proceed well for the welfare of the community,” he said.

Herdiawanto called on all parties to continue upholding the values of Pancasila. As believers in God Almighty, he added, we should implement humanitarian values, unity, and consultation so that social justice can be realised in Papua.

“Conflict will only leave sorrow and suffering, but lasting peace will be the gateway to development,” he concluded.