Jakarta, Jubi – A group of around 70 individuals, mostly women and children, reportedly fled their village following the presence of strangers believed to be members of the Papuan National Liberation Army (TPNPB) in Eronggobak Village, Omukia District, Puncak Regency, They sought refuge at the Eromaga Post of the Yonif Raider 300 Task Force in the same district on Friday, October 20, 2023.
Joint Defense Area III commander Air Cdre. Deni Hasoloan Simanjuntak confirmed that the Eronggobak community had been displaced due to TPNPB’s terror, potentially linked to the previous attacks on construction workers at Omukia Health Center.
The Indonesian Military (TNI) had taken precautions to address the situation. Lt. Col. Inf. Afri Swandi Ritonga of the Yonif Raider 300 ordered his members to be on standby. Displaced individuals were accommodated in Eromaga Post and a honai (traditional house) near the post, with the TNI providing them with food.
The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) has, since 2018, warned civilians, particularly immigrants, to evacuate conflict areas in the Land of Papua, including Puncak Jaya, Timika, Intan Jaya, Puncak, Nduga, Yahukimo, Bintang Mountains, Maybrat, and now Fakfak.
TPNPB stated that any aircraft passing through conflict areas would be targeted. They also have specific rules in place to protect unarmed civilians and prohibit the shooting of non-combatants unless they are acting as spies for the TNI and Police. (*)
