TNI Pursues OPM Members After Three Civilians Killed in Yahukimo

The TNI’s Habema Operations Command is pursuing members of the Free Papua Movement (OPM) suspected of killing three civilians near the Trans Papua road in Seradala District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan, on Monday (20/7).

In an official press release from Habema Public Relations received in Jakarta on Wednesday, it was explained that the victims consisted of a married couple and a woman from the Unaukam tribe.

“Following up on the incident, the TNI Habema Operations Command continues to coordinate with relevant authorities to conduct investigations, pursuits, and law enforcement against the perpetrators in accordance with applicable regulations,” said Head of Public Relations for the Operations Command, Lieutenant Colonel (Inf.) Wirya Arthadiguna, in the press release.

Wirya stated that the assault was allegedly carried out by an OPM group led by Kopitua Heluka (Danops Kodap Yahukimo). Information regarding the brutal act, Wirya continued, had also been published by the OPM through the Central Headquarters Management of the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB).

“In that information, they claimed responsibility for the shooting that resulted in the deaths of three civilians,” Wirya revealed.

As of now, his party has not been able to provide more detailed information regarding the chronology of the assault. The Habema Operations Command, Wirya continued, is still focused on gathering information about the perpetrators’ whereabouts. At the same time, the Habema Operations Command will also strengthen security in the area to provide a sense of safety for the local community.

“The TNI Habema Operations Command will continue to work selectively, measurably, professionally, and in accordance with the law to provide a sense of security for the community and ensure the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions,” said Wirya.