TNI Commander: Papua Conflict Requires Broader Collaboration Beyond Military

The Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), General Agus Subiyanto, has emphasized that the conflict in Papua cannot be resolved by the TNI alone, stressing the need for collaboration with regional governments and ministries. He pointed out that Papua's vast area and challenging geographical conditions necessitate a joint effort. "I think that solving Papua is not only by the TNI, everyone must collaborate, regional governments, ministries," Agus stated in Central Jakarta, as quoted by Antara on Sunday, September 20. This statement comes amidst a series of violent incidents in Papua. One recent case involved the discovery of Aris Sanda, a travel driver from Toraja, found dead along with his burned vehicle in the Danau Habema area, Papua Mountains. The TNI Habema Operations Command identified the OPM Ndugama armed group as responsible for the violence against Aris. According to the Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, Lieutenant Colonel Inf. Wirya Arthadiguna, Aris had previously been driving passengers in an open-top car when his vehicle was intercepted by an armed group in the middle of the journey. The passengers were reportedly asked to return to Wamena, while Aris was detained and taken by the group towards Lake Habema. A search by Koops TNI Habema personnel on Wednesday, September 16, later found the vehicle burned and Aris's body. Koops TNI Habema stated its commitment to pursuing the involved armed groups and strengthening security in the area. "Koops TNI Habema will continue to make efforts to handle the armed groups involved, including carrying out the pursuit and supporting the law enforcement process in accordance with applicable regulations to prevent the fall of subsequent victims and provide a sense of security to the community," Wirya said.