Post by : Shakul

Violence linked to separatist rebels in Indonesia’s Papua region has raised fresh concerns about stability and civilian safety after recent attacks left two civilians dead.

Security researcher Heri Herdiawanto from Al-Azhar Indonesia University’s Geopolitics and Defense Studies Center warned that continued attacks by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) could disrupt development and social stability across Papua.

The incidents reportedly occurred on March 8 and March 11 in Tambrauw District in Southwest Papua and the Grasberg area of Tembagapura in Central Papua. According to Herdiawanto, the attacks targeted locations linked to the TPNPB’s Regional Defense Command structure and resulted in the deaths of two civilians who were working as honorary employees of the local government.

He condemned the violence, saying civilians should never become victims of the long-running conflict in the region. The researcher stressed that protecting local communities must remain a priority as tensions continue to affect security conditions.

Papua has experienced a decades-long separatist conflict between Indonesian security forces and armed groups seeking independence. The West Papua National Liberation Army, the military wing of the Free Papua Movement, has carried out numerous attacks on government forces and civilians in recent years. In several incidents across 2025, dozens of people, including teachers, health workers, and gold miners, were killed during rebel assaults in the region.

The violence has often disrupted public services and economic activities in remote parts of Papua. Experts say repeated attacks create fear among residents, forcing communities to flee their homes and halting education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

Herdiawanto warned that continued instability could weaken public confidence and slow regional progress. He urged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint and prioritize peaceful solutions.

According to him, dialogue, improved living conditions, and stronger protection for civilians are essential steps toward lasting peace in Papua. He also emphasized that Indonesia’s national ideology, Pancasila, promotes unity, humanitarian values, and deliberation as a way to resolve differences.

“Conflict only leaves grief and suffering,” he said, adding that a peaceful environment is crucial for development and prosperity in Papua.

#world news #Global News #Asia News