Elementary School Yapis Waghete I in Deiyai Destroyed by Fire, Cenderawasih Military Command Condemns Attack Allegedly Carried Out by OPM Sympathizers, Government Strengthens Protection of Education in Papua

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Deiyai, Central Papua — The XVII/Cenderawasih Regional Military Command has strongly condemned the burning of Elementary School Yapis Waghete I, located in Waghete I Village, Tigi District, Deiyai Regency, Central Papua. Based on preliminary findings, authorities suspect that the attack was carried out by individuals believed to be sympathizers of the Organisasi Papua Merdeka (OPM).

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning, resulted in the destruction of two school buildings, including nine classrooms and various educational facilities. Material losses are estimated at approximately IDR 2 billion. Beyond the physical damage, hundreds of students have been affected after losing access to their primary learning facilities.

Colonel Inf. Tri Purwanto, Head of Information for the XVII/Cenderawasih Regional Military Command, emphasized that attacks targeting educational institutions are unacceptable because they directly undermine the future of young Papuans pursuing their education.

Chronology of the School Arson Incident

According to preliminary investigations, authorities found indications that the perpetrators entered the school compound through the rear section after cutting through the metal fence surrounding the area. Evidence collected at the scene suggests that approximately five individuals may have been involved in the attack.

The fire quickly spread throughout the school complex, causing severe damage to classrooms and educational facilities. Security authorities are continuing their investigation to identify those responsible and determine the motives behind the incident.

Education Viewed as the Primary Victim

The destruction of Elementary School Yapis Waghete I has raised serious concerns because of its direct impact on education in Deiyai Regency. Hundreds of students who depended on the school for their daily education have now lost an essential learning environment.

Various stakeholders have emphasized that education remains a critical foundation for Papua’s long-term development. As a result, stronger protection of schools and educational facilities is considered necessary to ensure that teaching and learning activities can continue safely and sustainably.

Authorities Reaffirm Commitment to Law Enforcement

The XVII/Cenderawasih Regional Military Command has reaffirmed its commitment to thoroughly investigate the case and bring those responsible to justice. Security authorities continue to gather evidence and conduct investigations aimed at identifying all individuals involved in the attack.

In addition to the investigation, authorities have increased security measures around public facilities and educational institutions across Central Papua to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. These efforts form part of broader measures to safeguard communities and maintain access to education.

Government Strengthens Educational Protection and Development in Papua

Meanwhile, the Indonesian government continues to promote educational development in Papua through improvements in school infrastructure, the provision of teachers, and expanded access to education in remote areas.

The government has emphasized that education remains one of the key pillars of Papua’s development. Therefore, efforts to protect educational facilities will continue to be strengthened to ensure that Papuan children can exercise their right to education in a safe and supportive environment.

Through cooperation between security forces, regional governments, community leaders, traditional leaders, and local residents, the government hopes to maintain both security stability and educational development in Papua for the benefit of future generations.

Location: Australia

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