Success of Security Forces in Taking Firm Action Against OPM Separatist Group
By: Isak Wambai
The success of security forces in taking firm action against acts of terror carried out by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) deserves appreciation from all of us. Amidst the various challenges faced, the quick and firm response from security forces shows that efforts to maintain stability and peace in Papua are still a top priority.
Taking action against terrorist groups that try to disrupt public order in the region, such as what happened in Homeyo District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, is a very appropriate step.
The terrorist group led by Keni Tipagau has again shown their violent face by launching a shooting at Pogapa Airport. The threats they sent through a letter to security forces, which in essence forced the government to fulfill their wishes in development projects, are clearly an attempt to manipulate the situation for their own personal gain.
However, the firm response from the Commander of Koops Habema, Brigadier General Lucky Avianto, to increase security in the area proved that the security forces would not be intimidated by such cunning tactics.
The increased security carried out by the TNI Task Force in the Homeyo District, especially at Pogapa Airport, is a strategic step that not only ensures flight security but also provides a sense of security for local residents. By maintaining security stability, the wheels of the economy can continue to turn, and people’s lives are not disturbed by threats of violence.
However, as happened on August 30, 2024, the OPM was not satisfied with this response and chose to launch a gun attack at the end of the airport, increasing tensions in the area.
The incident that took place in Janogo Village, Homeyo District, is clear evidence that the community will not remain silent when their security is threatened. Through physical resistance, the Homeyo community succeeded in driving the OPM out of their area, showing that courage and solidarity are the keys to fighting terrorism.
This success not only confirms the vital role of the TNI in maintaining security, but also shows the importance of communication and cooperation between the security forces and the community. The initiative of the Habema Soldiers who actively carried out security and built inclusive communication with residents, yielded significant results.
In addition, this success also indicates that joint efforts between security forces and local communities are able to accelerate development in the Papua region. When a sense of security is guaranteed, investment and development projects can run smoothly, providing a sustainable positive impact on the economy and community welfare.
Proactive steps like this must continue to be encouraged so that every part of Papua can feel the impact of fair and equitable development.
It did not stop there, the success of the security forces was also seen in the operation to arrest other OPM members, such as what happened on August 17, 2024 in Nduga Regency.
In his statement, the Head of the Cartenz-2024 Peace Operation, Brigadier General Pol Faizal Ramadhani, confirmed that the joint TNI-Polri team from the Task Force succeeded in arresting and securing a fugitive from the Free Papua Organization (OPM) Nduga, Rife Kereba alias Erik alias Trisna Telenggen.
This arrest is part of an ongoing effort to eradicate groups that continue to disrupt security and order in the Papua region.
The arrest of Rife Kereba is not a trivial matter, considering that he was involved in various criminal acts in Yahukimo and Nduga Regencies, including the murder of gold miners in Kali El, Seradala District, Yahukimo Regency. The fact that Rife Kereba has long been a fugitive with Wanted List (DPO) status shows how important this arrest is in law enforcement efforts in the region.
With the arrest of Rife Kereba, it is hoped that the criminal network led by Egianus Kogoya will be increasingly cornered and can finally be destroyed.
This success must continue to be maintained and improved, with full support from the community and solid cooperation between various elements of the state. The challenges faced are not easy, but with a high fighting spirit and commitment to protecting the nation, peace in Papua will be maintained.
Let us together ensure that every inch of Papuan land remains an inseparable part of a safe and peaceful Indonesia.
*) Law Student, University of Papua (Unipa)
