Papuan Students Condemn TPNPB-OPM Violence, Call for Armed Groups to Stay Away from Civilian Communities

 

JAYAPURA, Papua – Criticism of violence allegedly involving the West Papua National Liberation Army–Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) has increasingly been voiced by Papuan university students. They argue that repeated acts of violence have caused fear and suffering among local communities and are increasingly disconnected from the interests and welfare of ordinary Papuans.

The issue has drawn renewed attention following a shooting involving civilians near the 34th Baliem Valley Cultural Festival in Walesi District, Jayawijaya Regency, Highland Papua. The incident occurred amid a major cultural event attended by local residents as well as visitors from outside the region.

According to the report, the incident was allegedly linked to TPNPB Kodap III Ndugama Derakma. The shooting reportedly occurred approximately 500 meters from the festival entrance, raising concerns about the safety of civilians attending the cultural event.

Students Reject Violence in Civilian Areas

Yuluku Wasiangge, chairman of the Student Executive Board (BEM) at Cenderawasih University, criticized acts of violence that put civilians at risk.

He argued that residential areas and public spaces should remain safe for ordinary people. According to him, the presence of armed groups in civilian environments can increase the risk of confrontation and place local communities in dangerous situations.

The criticism reflects growing concern among some members of Papua's younger generation about the impact of armed violence on daily life, education, cultural activities, and the local economy.

Papuan Communities Have the Right to Live Safely

Papuan students emphasized that residents have the right to live, work, study, and participate in community activities without intimidation or violence.

When violence takes place near public events and residential areas, civilians are often the ones who face the greatest consequences. Cultural festivals, educational activities, transportation, and local businesses can all be disrupted by insecurity.

For this reason, students have called for armed groups to keep away from civilian communities and for disputes to be addressed through peaceful and lawful mechanisms.

Incidents in Yahukimo Also Draw Attention

The criticism has also been connected to several other violent incidents reported in Papua.

The report highlighted an incident involving three civilians in Yahukimo Regency in July 2026, who were allegedly accused by an armed group of being military intelligence agents before being killed.

Another incident reportedly occurred on July 2, 2026, when an armed group was linked to the shooting of Captain Nicholas F. Gosselin, a U.S. national pilot operating a pioneer aircraft belonging to PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) at Balinggama Airport, Sobaham District, Yahukimo. The aircraft, identified as PK-RCY, was also reportedly burned.

These incidents have intensified calls from community representatives and students for greater protection of civilians and an end to violence in populated areas.

Central Papua Governor Calls for Civilian Protection

The call to protect civilians has also been echoed by Central Papua Governor Meki Nawipa, who has emphasized that armed conflict in Papua should not turn civilians into victims.

The governor has specifically highlighted the importance of protecting women and children, who are among the most vulnerable groups during periods of insecurity.

Such statements underline the importance of placing civilian safety at the center of efforts to address Papua's security challenges, regardless of differing political perspectives.

Civilian Communities Must Not Become Targets

The growing criticism from Papuan students and regional leaders demonstrates the importance of listening to local voices regarding security and violence.

Residents need safe spaces for education, cultural activities, economic activity, and everyday life. Maintaining those spaces requires cooperation between government institutions, security forces, community leaders, customary authorities, religious figures, and local residents.

At the same time, law enforcement authorities have a responsibility to investigate violent incidents professionally and ensure that those proven responsible are held accountable under the law.

Toward a Safer and More Peaceful Papua

The criticism expressed by Papuan students highlights a broader demand for a safer environment in which civilians are protected from armed violence.

Strengthening civilian protection, enforcing the rule of law, maintaining public security, and continuing social and economic development can contribute to greater stability across Papua.

For many communities, the priority is straightforward: public spaces should remain safe, cultural activities should continue without intimidation, and civilians should not become victims of armed conflict.