Jayapura, Jubi – In an incident that unfolded in Maybrat Regency, the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) claimed to have destroyed a heavy construction vehicle and shot a member of the Indonesian Military (TNI).
TPNPB spokesperson Sebby Sambom, in a video statement, disclosed that TPNPB Commander IV Arnoldus Kocu from the Sorong Raya region led this operation, which targeted Ayata Village, located within the East Aifat District.
Sambom emphasized the lack of any safe areas within their operational territory, citing ongoing conflict in their pursuit of Papua’s independence.
West Papua Police Chief, Insp. Gen. Daniel TM Silitonga, acknowledged that there was an incident involving arson at a construction project site for a community health center allegedly committed by an unidentified group. However, he firmly denied reports of casualties.
Silitonga assured the public that the situation in Maybrat remained calm, suggesting that local residents might be familiar with these sporadic incidents and were patiently awaiting the results of the ongoing investigation.
Contrary to the TPNPB’s claims of TNI casualties in the attack on Ayata Village, the Police chief dismissed these claims and labeled them as a hoax.
West Papua Police spokesperson Sr. Come. Adam Erwindi corroborated the occurrence of the incident, specifying that it took place in the early hours of Friday, October 27, 2023.
“Information about the incident was reported by the public to the TNI post in Ayata, indicating the burning of excavation equipment and damage to materials for the health center project with associated gunshots near the Ayata Post,” said Erwindi.
Erwindi disclosed that, as of now, no casualties have been reported as a result of the incident. He also confirmed that an investigation is currently underway, with the Maybrat Police actively leading the effort to ascertain the full details of the situation.
