Komnas Perempuan Calls for Independent Investigation into Death of Pregnant Woman in Intan Jaya, Government Urged to Ensure Transparent Fact-Finding

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Jakarta — Indonesia's National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has called for an independent, impartial, comprehensive, and transparent investigation into the death of a pregnant woman identified as MD (Melkiana Duwitau), who was fatally struck by a bullet during an armed incident in Sugapa District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua. The commission emphasized that a thorough investigation is essential to establish accountability, provide justice for the victim's family, and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The incident occurred on July 2, 2026, in Mamba Village, Sugapa District. According to information released by the Habema Joint Operations Command (Koops Habema), the area came under gunfire allegedly originating from an armed group identified as the Free Papua Movement (OPM) from several different positions. Military officials stated that Indonesian troops did not return fire due to heavy rain, dense fog, and extremely limited visibility.

Komnas Perempuan Emphasizes the Need for an Independent Investigation

In its official statement, Komnas Perempuan expressed condolences over the deaths of Melkiana Duwitau and her unborn child. The commission described the incident as a serious concern involving the protection of women's rights, including the rights to life, personal security, and health.

Komnas Perempuan stressed that the state has an obligation to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently, impartially, comprehensively, and transparently in order to establish the facts, ensure accountability, provide remedies for the victim's family, and take legal action against anyone found responsible in accordance with applicable law.

Security Forces Present Preliminary Account of the Incident

Koops Habema explained that preliminary field reports, operational analysis, and site assessments indicated that gunfire originated from three separate locations allegedly controlled by an armed group led by Peles Tigau.

According to military officials, the exchange lasted approximately fifteen minutes. During the incident, Indonesian troops reportedly remained under cover and monitored the situation without returning fire because poor weather conditions and difficult terrain made it impossible to safely identify targets.

Authorities stated that the information released so far reflects the military's initial assessment while the broader investigation continues.

Komnas HAM Also Conducts Its Own Investigation

In addition to Komnas Perempuan, the Papua Regional Office of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has deployed an investigation team to gather evidence directly from the scene.

During its initial assessment, the team documented several projectile marks around the victim's residence and conducted a reconstruction of the incident site as part of its fact-finding process. Investigators also met with local government officials, security personnel, community leaders, and residents to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Protection of Civilians Remains a Key Priority

The incident has once again highlighted the importance of protecting civilians, particularly women and children, in areas affected by ongoing security challenges.

Komnas Perempuan recommended that the government provide comprehensive support to the victim's family, including psychosocial assistance, security guarantees, and access to a fair and transparent legal process. The commission also encouraged authorities to strengthen measures aimed at protecting civilians in conflict-affected areas.

Government Expected to Ensure a Transparent and Accountable Investigation

The case has drawn the attention of several national institutions and is expected to be handled professionally based on available evidence. The ongoing investigations are intended to clarify the sequence of events, determine responsibility where supported by evidence, and provide legal certainty for the victim's family.

The government is also expected to continue strengthening coordination among security agencies, regional authorities, and independent oversight institutions to ensure that the investigation is conducted transparently while reinforcing civilian protection in Papua. A law-based approach that emphasizes accountability, transparency, and the protection of civilians is expected to contribute to a safer environment that supports public services and long-term development throughout the region.

Location: Australia

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