Armed Criminal Group’s Terror in Papua Hinders Progress, Locals Suffer

Papua, Indonesia – The Armed Criminal Group (KKB) operating in Papua continues to carry out violent acts that deeply affect the local population. Their brutality and terror not only claim lives but also severely disrupt the social and economic fabric of the community.

A recent attack by the group occurred in Lanny Jaya, Papua Highlands, where police officer Brigadier Johan Herik Sibarani and civilian Adi Fallo fell victim to the group’s violent actions. The shooting underlines the fragility of security in Papua, especially in areas frequently targeted by the KKB.

Over the past few years, the KKB has increasingly intensified its violent operations. They have launched attacks on security outposts, opened fire on civilians, burned public facilities, and taken hostages. As a result, many residents have lost their lives, property, and been forced to flee their homes in search of safety.

Despite portraying themselves as freedom fighters, the KKB’s separatist activities are widely condemned as criminal acts violating human rights. Yonas Alfons Nusy, a prominent community leader in Papua, expressed his strong opposition to the group’s violent methods. “Murder, hostage-taking, and the destruction of government facilities are criminal acts that cannot be justified. These actions lack any moral basis or legitimate purpose. For example, the killing of Michelle Kurisi Doga, a Papuan woman, is a tragic reminder of their brutality,” Nusy stated.

The KKB’s violent acts have also hindered development efforts in Papua. Key infrastructure projects, such as the construction of roads, bridges, and schools, have been disrupted due to attacks by the group. This has severely limited access to transportation, education, and healthcare for the local population.

Additionally, the group often exploits civilians as shields during their operations. They pressure local communities to provide logistical support or take refuge within villages, further exacerbating the hardships of residents already living in constant fear.

The KKB poses not only a threat to the government but also to the future of a peaceful and prosperous Papua. The people of Papua require comprehensive support from the government and authorities to restore security, stability, and prosperity to their region, which has long been ravaged by violence.