Jayapura, Jubi – Flights to Bilogai Airport in Sugapa, the capital of Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua Province, have resumed following the assessment of the security situation in Intan Jaya as conducive. Previously, flights to Bilogai were suspended due to the escalation of armed conflicts in Intan Jaya since January 19, 2024.
This was announced by the Papua Police chief, Insp. Gen. Mathius Fakhiri, in Jayapura City, Papua Province, on Friday (9/2/2024).
“The security situation [in Intan Jaya] is gradually returning to normal. I hereby authorize the reopening of flights to facilitate the distribution of logistics for the 2024 General Election. We will fully support its security,” said Fakhiri.
According to Fakhiri, the security situation in Intan Jaya has improved since the shootings and arson attacks on several government facilities by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB).
“Intan Jaya is starting to become more peaceful. I urge the local police [of Intan Jaya] to strengthen and prepare security measures there,” he said.
Fakhiri explained that he has also communicated with the Acting Governor of Central Papua, Ribka Haluk, to request that the Acting Regent of Intan Jaya, Apolos Bagau, personally engage with the community. This effort is expected to ensure that the implementation of the polling process for the 2024 General Election proceeds peacefully and smoothly.
“I have asked the Acting Governor to instruct Mr. Bagau to engage directly with the community, so that all final stages of the election can proceed smoothly,” he said. (*)
