Jayapura, Jubi – The initial report concerning the homicide of Michelle Kurisi has been forwarded to the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). Frits Ramandey, the head of the Papua Representative of Komnas HAM, stated on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, that his office had submitted an initial report on the Michelle Kurisi murder case to Komnas HAM in Jakarta. This report will be further analyzed to determine the course of action regarding Michelle Kurisi’s death.
“We are actively engaged in this matter. We’ve compiled a summary of the case and have dispatched it to Komnas HAM,” Ramandey informed reporters during a press conference in Jayapura City on Tuesday.
Ramandey further revealed that his office had sought information from the family of the late Michelle Kurisi on September 4.
“Michelle Kurisi’s mother indicated that they had been in communication with various parties to provide support. Several names of potential witnesses have been submitted to Komnas HAM,” he stated.
Michelle Kurisi was tragically killed by a group suspected to be associated with the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB). The case gained widespread attention due to the circulation of a video showing Michelle Kurisi being interrogated.
Ramandey noted that failure to resolve Michelle Kurisi’s murder would contribute to the already extensive record of violence in Papua. He expressed confidence that the police would be able to elucidate the circumstances of her death, citing preliminary evidence, including the sequence of events and the results of the police-conducted autopsy.
“Komnas HAM is confident that the police will uncover the truth behind Michelle Kurisi’s murder, as there is more than one piece of evidence and multiple leads. This includes the chronology of events leading to Michelle Kurisi’s death, as well as the results of her autopsy,” he asserted.
Ramandey disclosed that the family had requested a thorough investigation into Michelle Kurisi’s murder. He affirmed that his office would collaborate with the police to shed light on the case and ascertain responsibility for the two children Michelle Kurisi left behind. (*)