Jayapura, Jubi – Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) ham called on President Prabowo Subianto to conduct a comprehensive review of security operations and rules of engagement for military and security personnel deployed across Papua, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
The commission said security operations should prioritize a humanitarian, rights-based approach rather than relying on repressive measures.
The appeal follows allegations that security forces were involved in a series of attacks against civilians in Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua.
Speaking at a press conference in Jayapura on Thursday, Papua office head Frits Ramandey said Komnas HAM had gathered information indication that the body of civilian Okto Tigau was found in Mamba Village, Sugapa District, on July 1 after he had been reported missing sine June 29.
“The victim’s body was found near the Rajawali Task Force military post in Habema, and bore several wounds to the chest and abdomen,” Ramandey said.
Komnas HAM said it had documented at least seven violent incidents in Intan Jaya since May.
Among them were an explosion believed to have been caused by a grenade at St. Paul Catholic Church in Nabuni Mbamogo on May 17 that injured four civilians, and another suspected grenade attack (allegedly dropped by a drone) in Danggoa Village, Agisiga District, on June 18 that wounded two civilians.
The commission also recorded an armed clash between the TPNPB and the Rajawali IV military task force in Agisiga on June 27, in which one Indonesian soldier was killed and three others were injured.
On June 29, gunfire struck the vehicle of Rev. Yanuarius Yange Yogi, dean of the Moni Deanery under the Timika Diocese, in Titigi Village, Sugapa District.
Separate shootings the same day left two civilians wounded in Titigi, while Elianus Agimbau, a pastor with the Indonesian Evangelical Tabernacle Church (GKII), was killed in Kupia Village, Agisiga District.
Okto Tigau, who disappeared on June 29, was later found dead on July 1.
Komnas HAM condemned the alleged attacks on civilians, saying violence against non-combatants cannot be justified under any circumstances.
“Any attack against civilians, whether during armed conflict or outside it, by state or non-stat actors constitutes a violation of human rights, international humanitarian law, and the rights to life and security,” Ramandey said.
He expressed condolences to the families of civilians and security personnel who had been killed or injured, stressing that civilians must receive the highest level of protection.
Ramandey urged both Indonesian security forces and the TPNPB to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could spread fear, stigmatize communities, or place civilians at risk.
He also called on authorities to ensure that all law enforcement and security operations are carried out professionally, proportionately, and in accordance with human rights principles.
Komnas HAM further urged both the central and regional governments to provide comprehensive assistance to victims, including medical and psychological care, while ensuring that civilians are not forced to flee their homes because of the violence.
The commission also called for an independent, transparent, and thorough investigation into the killings and other acts of violence to ensure accountability and justice for victims and their families.
“Komnas HAM is treating these incidents with the utmost seriousness. We are collecting information and will continue monitoring the situation in accordance with our mandate,” Ramandey said. (*)
