Palace Responds to Military Operation in Papua, Asserts Humanistic Approach

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Head of the Presidential Communication Office, Hasan Nasbi, has stated that the government prioritizes a humanistic approach in addressing the ongoing conflict in Papua. His remarks came after reports that 18 members of the armed criminal group or the Free Papua Organization (OPM) were neutralized by the Indonesian Military (TNI) during a military operation in Intan Jaya, Papua.

"Throughout this time, dialogue and engagement have been continuously pursued, employing a familial and humane approach that has always been at the forefront of the government's strategy," he said when speaking to reporters at 6 Cemara Galeri in Jakarta on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

However, Hasan also acknowledged that the TNI might resort to more forceful actions in specific circumstances. "If unforeseen conditions arise in the field that are not conducive, then naturally, the authorities on the ground have their own considerations for taking such actions," he explained.

Currently, he claimed that he did not have detailed information regarding the specific military operation conducted by the TNI. Nevertheless, he affirmed that the TNI has the right to decide to conduct military operations when deemed necessary.

"I need to first consult with the TNI before I can respond. But fundamentally, if public order is disturbed, essential services are disrupted, or the daily lives of the community are affected, then it indeed requires addressing," he stated.

Prior to this statement, the TNI had announced that they successfully neutralized 18 members of the West Papua National Liberation Army - Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) in a military operation in Sugapa District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

The operation was carried out by the TNI's Habema Task Force between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM Eastern Indonesian Time (WIT), focusing on five villages: Titigi, Ndugusiga, Jaindapa, Sugapa Lama, and Zanamba.

"The TNI's presence is not to intimidate the people but to protect them from the violence and intimidation perpetrated by armed groups. This operation is being conducted in a measured and professional manner, prioritizing the safety of civilians. We will not allow the people of Papua to live in fear in their own land," the TNI's official statement read on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Conversely, the OPM has accused the Indonesian military of causing the deaths and injuries of several of its members due to a bomb explosion. The OPM alleges that the bomb was planted by the Indonesian military on the bodies of their comrades in Hitadipa District, Intan Jaya, Central Papua.

Dani Aswara contributed to the writing of this article

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