In a significant development in Indonesia’s Papua region, the National Police have arrested eight individuals associated with the Papuan armed separatist group, the Free Papua Movement (OPM), in connection with the recent killing of a teacher in the Yahukimo Regency. The arrests were made following a series of coordinated operations aimed at dismantling separatist activities in the area.
The incident that led to these arrests occurred on March 21, 2025, when a group of armed separatists stormed a housing complex for educators in Anggruk District, Yahukimo Regency. During the attack, they fatally stabbed a 30-year-old female teacher, Rosalia Rerek Sogen, and injured six other teachers and one health worker. The perpetrators also set fire to the teachers’ residences and classrooms, causing significant damage to educational facilities.
The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), the armed wing of the OPM, claimed responsibility for the attack, alleging that the victims were intelligence agents operating undercover as teachers and medical personnel. Elkius Kobak, a TPNPB commander in Yahukimo, stated, “The killing was carried out by our forces under my orders.” (benarnews.org) However, Indonesian authorities have strongly refuted these claims, emphasizing that the victims were civilians dedicated to providing education and healthcare services in remote areas.
In response to the escalating violence, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) swiftly deployed personnel to restore security in the region. Brig. Gen. Kristomei Sianturi, Head of TNI’s Information Center, affirmed the military’s commitment to protecting public servants, stating, “The TNI has deployed personnel to evacuate the victims, secure the region, and support efforts to restore the situation after the barbaric and cowardly actions of the OPM group.”
The recent arrests are part of a broader effort by Indonesian authorities to curb separatist activities in Papua. In April 2025, four Papuan pro-independence activists were arrested on charges of treason after they visited government offices and police stations in Sorong City, Southwest Papua province. (indoleft.org) These actions underscore the government’s determination to address separatist movements and maintain stability in the region.
The situation in Papua remains tense, with ongoing clashes between security forces and separatist groups. Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the impact of the conflict on civilians, urging all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and prioritize the safety of the local population.
As investigations continue, Indonesian authorities are committed to bringing those responsible for the attack on educators to justice and ensuring the safety of civilians in the region. The government has also called for increased cooperation from local communities to help identify and apprehend individuals involved in separatist activities.
The arrest of the eight individuals marks a significant step in Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to address separatist violence in Papua. Authorities remain vigilant and are implementing measures to prevent further attacks, aiming to restore peace and stability to the region.
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