Papua Driver Killed, Vehicle Burned by OPM; TNI Launches Search

Members of the Free Papua Organization (OPM) are reported to have burned a driver and his vehicle on the Wamena-Mbua route in Papua Pegunungan, Indonesia, on Tuesday (15/9). "In this incident, a driver named Aris Sanda, also known as Bapak Tasya, from Toraja, was reported to be a victim of violence by the armed group OPM KODAP III Ndugama, resulting in the victim's death," said Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, Letkol Inf. M. Wirya Arthadiguna, in a written statement on Wednesday (16/9). He stated that the incident occurred around 06:00 AM WIT near the Habema Lake intersection, Gunung Boy, Trikora District, Jayawijaya Regency. Wirya mentioned that the victim was a driver who had been serving the community by transporting logistics and passengers on the Wamena-Mbua route. This inter-city logistics and passenger transport service is commonly known as 'sopir lajuran'. He explained that based on initial information, a group of armed individuals stopped a convoy of vehicles. The group then conducted a check on the drivers and passengers. "After that, the passengers were ordered to return towards Wamena, while Aris Sanda was taken in the direction of the Habema Lake area," he said. Following up on the report, Koops TNI Habema conducted a search and sweep around the scene. The team then found a burned vehicle along with the driver's body. Currently, he said, the body evacuation process is being carried out according to applicable procedures, while still paying attention to personnel safety and the situation on the ground. "Further investigation into the chronology of the incident and witness statements is also being carried out together with related elements," he said. Wirya stated that Koops TNI Habema will continue to make efforts to handle the armed group involved, including carrying out pursuits and supporting the law enforcement process in accordance with applicable regulations. "We deeply regret this incident. The victim was working to deliver logistics and provide transportation for the community to the interior. People who work to help the lives of the community should be able to carry out their duties safely and not become victims of violence," he said. Information Source: CNN Indonesia