In response to Friday’s attack in Anggruk, Yahukimo District, Brig. Gen. Kristomei Sianturi, Head of TNI's Information Center, affirmed that the military remains committed to protecting the public, especially educators and medical workers who dedicate their lives to serving the nation in remote areas.
"The TNI has deployed personnel to evacuate the victims, secure the region, and support efforts to restore the situation after the barbaric and cowardly actions of the OPM group," he stated in a statement issued on Sunday.
He emphasized that the violent actions were allegedly carried out by a separatist group led by Elkius Kobak, who resorted to violence after failing in an extortion attempt.
"Because their demands were not met, members of this group attacked six teachers, burned down a school and the teachers' homes, and terrorized the community," Sianturi noted.
He assured the public that the TNI responded rapidly, successfully evacuating 42 educators and medics from Yahukimo, Highland Papua, to Jayapura, Papua.
"The presence of educators and medics in Papua’s regions is crucial to the progress and future of local communities," he stated. "The TNI will always protect them and ensure security in areas prone to unrest."
Sianturi added that the military has strengthened security measures in vulnerable regions and is working with local governments to pursue the attackers.
He emphasized that the TNI would never let such incidents go unaddressed, vowing to protect civilians and maintain stability in Papua regions.
Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights confirmed that the separatist group killed one female teacher and injured six others. Among the victims, six were from East Nusa Tenggara, while one was from Southwest Papua.
Related news: Minister Pigai contacts NTT, Highland Papua after insurgent attack
Related news: A separatist killed in a gunfight: Peace Cartenz Task Force
Translator: Melalusa S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
