Desperate Amid Security Operations, OPM Behind Civilian Shooting at Baliem Valley Cultural Festival: TNI-Polri Ensure Situation Remains Stable

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JAYAWIJAYA – Members of the Free Papua Movement (OPM) Kodap III/Ndugama are behind the shooting of two civilians near the venue of the 34th Baliem Valley Cultural Festival (FBLB) in Walesi District, Jayawijaya Regency, Highland Papua. Security officials view this sporadic act of terror as a clear sign of desperation from the group, which has been increasingly cornered by the joint TNI-Polri Task Force's tightened security measures and ongoing operations across the region.

The cowardly attack targeting unarmed civilians occurred amidst high enthusiasm from local residents and both domestic and international tourists attending Jayawijaya's flagship annual cultural event. Military authorities strongly condemned the violence, reiterating the government's unwavering commitment to maintaining regional stability and protecting all citizens in Papua.

Armed Group's Desperation Amid Heightened Security Measures

Chief of Information for the XVII/Cenderawasih Military Command, Colonel Inf Tri Purwanto, stated that the incident—which occurred approximately 500 meters from the festival's main entrance—underscores the group's increasingly precarious position. The continuous, highly responsive presence of military and police personnel has effectively restricted the armed group's movements across vulnerable areas.

"We strongly condemn this shooting targeting innocent civilians. It clearly demonstrates the desperation of the OPM group as they find themselves increasingly cornered by the rigorous security operations maintained by the TNI-Polri Task Force. The consistent presence of security personnel protecting the public has narrowed their operational space, driving them to execute sporadic attacks in a desperate bid for attention," Colonel Inf Tri Purwanto stated.

He further emphasized that the government, through its security apparatus, will not allow acts of terror to disrupt the social and economic lives of the Papuan people, particularly during major cultural celebrations that bring positive development to the region.

Swift Response: Emergency Medical Care for Victims

The immediate response of field personnel demonstrated the state's readiness to protect its citizens during critical moments. Following the incident, a joint TNI-Polri team acted swiftly to evacuate the two victims—Laode Muhammad Kojo (43) and Salbiah (50)—to the Wamena Regional General Hospital (RSUD Wamena) for immediate medical care.

This coordinated rescue ensured that both individuals received prompt emergency treatment from professional medical staff. Security officials continue to monitor their recovery, reporting that both victims are currently in stable condition while receiving ongoing medical attention.

Joint TNI-Polri Operations: Pursuing Perpetrators and Securing the Area

In response to the attack, the Commander of the XVII/Cenderawasih Military Region instructed local commanders to tighten security perimeters across the festival grounds and along key transport routes throughout Jayawijaya. Joint TNI-Polri tactical units are actively pursuing the perpetrators into the surrounding hinterlands.

Multi-layered security measures established around the Baliem Valley Cultural Festival venue successfully neutralized further threats, allowing the cultural festivities and local economic activities to resume in a safe, orderly, and stable environment.

"We assure the public that the TNI and Polri will not grant an inch of space to any group seeking to disrupt peace in Papua. The situation on the ground is fully under control thanks to the vigilance of our joint forces. We encourage residents and visitors to remain calm and confident in our security measures," added the Military Command spokesperson.

These decisive actions reinforce the government's ongoing efforts to foster a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Papua, ensuring that community cultural celebrations remain free from intimidation by separatist groups.

Location: Australia

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