The group, identified as KKB Ngalum Kupel, allegedly set fire to SMP Negeri Kiwirok in Sopamikma Village, Kiwirok Subdistrict, at around 7:45 a.m. local time (GMT+9) on Tuesday, according to Brig. Gen. Faizal Rahmadani, head of Operation Peace Cartenz.
"Sixteen unidentified individuals were seen torching the school building," Rahmadani said in Jayapura.
The attack occurred near SD Negeri Kiwirok, a primary school previously targeted by the same group. A joint TNI-Polri team was deployed to the area, but the attackers had already fled toward Delpem Village, he added.
Security personnel have since been stationed in Mangoldolki to prevent further assaults.
"This attack on a school is a cruel act targeting the future of Papuan children. It is not just a crime against the state but against humanity," Rahmadani said. "We will continue pursuing the attackers to ensure safety in Kiwirok."
The incident mirrors a 2021 attack by the same group, which also burned SMP Negeri Kiwirok and forced students to relocate to Oksibil.
Officials said the group's actions aim to destabilize the region and disrupt public services, particularly education.
Military and police forces continue to strengthen their presence across high-risk areas in Highland Papua to protect civilians and restore order.
Operation Peace Cartenz is a joint mission tasked with countering separatist threats in the Papua region, where armed groups increasingly target infrastructure and civilians.
Armed factions across the six-province region have frequently launched hit-and-run attacks on security forces and civilians to instill fear.
Victims have included construction workers, motorcycle taxi drivers, teachers, students, food vendors, and aircraft personnel.
In April, an armed group was blamed for killing 16 illegal gold miners in Bingki, Yahukimo District, Highland Papua.
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Translator: Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Anton Santoso
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