Chaos unfolds at Lukas Enembe’s funeral

Jayapura, Jubi - Thousands gathered to bear the body of former Governor Lukas Enembe from the Sentani Airport to the STAKIN Sentani cemetery grounds on Thursday, December 28, 2023. Initially, a group of students, church leaders, and several others intended for the body to be transported by vehicle, accompanied by the people walking. However, the fervent desire of the masses prevailed, leading to the collective decision to carry the body and proceed on foot from Sentani Airport to STAKIN. The late Lukas Enembe' s body was eventually carried by the crowd while walking.

Simultaneously, several members at the forefront hurled stones at houses, shops, and parked vehicles along the route, causing damage. Observations on the ground revealed significant damage to vital establishments such as banks in Sentani due to the mob's actions, causing concern over the escalating unrest.

As the rally moved towards STAKIN, the crowd continued to rampage, converging on the Papua Police Chief's entourage and other attendees walking alongside them. Multiple four-wheeled vehicles intending to enter STAKIN were destroyed, including the burning of a vehicle parked by the roadside.

Amidst the chaos, Sentani's Indigenous Community Leader, Frits Maurits Felle, emphasized the need for dignified proceedings during this time of mourning.

"This is a great leader of Papua; the funeral process must be carried out with dignity. His contributions to the development of Papua must be honored and continued," Felle expressed, acknowledging the difficulties in controlling the situation.

The aftermath revealed the grim extent of the unrest. The Papua Police reported approximately 25 buildings and shops in the district of Waena, Jayapura City, were set ablaze during the funeral procession.

"There were 14 reported injuries at the STAKIN incident, including one military personnel, seven police officers, the Acting Governor of Papua, and five civilians. A car was set ablaze, five vehicles severely damaged, and two buildings vandalized," said Papua Police Chief Insp. Gen. Mathius Fakhiri.

Expressing dismay at the events, Fakhiri urged the community to mourn respectfully, adhering to Papuan traditions, and avoiding actions that degrade the dignity of the people. Security measures were reinforced, with plans to maintain vigilance until Friday to disperse the masses peacefully after the burial. (*)

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