Jayapura, Jubi – Head of the Komnas HAM Papua Frits Ramandei confirms his party would pursue justice in the murder case of two women, identified as IS and AK, in Yahukimo Regency, Mountainous Papua Province.
The incidents involving AK and IS occurred separately on October 11, 2023. AK was fatally attacked while gardening in the morning, sustaining multiple stab wounds and being found with her neck and hands tied. IS, assaulted while accompanied by her 6-year-old son, succumbed to her injuries despite efforts at Dekai Regional General Hospital.
Ramandei said that an investigation team had not yet been formed by Komnas HAM due to regional jurisdiction constraints. He emphasized ongoing coordination with Komnas HAM to establish a team promptly for the investigation into the murders of IS and AK. Despite considering the incidents extraordinary, he acknowledged that no on-site investigation had taken place in Yahukimo.
The victims’ family, represented by Anike Mohi Kossy, urged the police to promptly identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Expressing dissatisfaction with the delay, she called for immediate legal action against those responsible.
Coordinator of Solidarity Against Violence Against Papuan Women (SAKTPP), Ana Bunai, urged Komnas HAM representatives of Papua and Komnas Perempuan to form an investigation team and visit Yahukimo immediately, emphasizing the one-month delay in addressing the case.
Bunai criticized the perceived inaction of Komnas HAM and the police, asserting that it undermines the dignity of Papuan women who have endured various forms of abuse without proper legal repercussions.
Papuan Women Activist Vero Hubi highlighted the vulnerability of Papuan women to various forms of violence in conflict areas, attributing it to an incomplete shift in societal thinking.
She argued that dismantling oppressive structures designed by authorities and patriarchy is crucial to addressing violence against Papuan women. Hubi also emphasized the role of colonialism as a contributing factor, perpetuating oppression against Papuan women.
