Komnas HAM: Attack on Civilians in Puncak Violates Human Rights

NABIRE - The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) stated that the attack that resulted in the death and injury of civilians in Puncak Regency, Central Papua, was a human rights violation.

Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission Anis Hidayat in a written statement received in Nabire, Saturday, said his party had received information that there were casualties among civilians when the TNI carried out an operation against the TPNPB-OPM group on April 14, 2026 in Kembru Village, Kembru District, Puncak Regency.

"This incident caused a number of civilians to die, including vulnerable groups, namely women and children, and dozens of other residents to suffer serious injuries," he said.

Anis emphasized that all forms of attacks against civilians, both in war and non-war situations, cannot be justified under any pretext.

Attacks on civilians by state and non-state actors are violations of human rights and international humanitarian law as they violate the right to life and the right to security which cannot be derogated from under any circumstances.

Komnas HAM also expressed its deep condolences for the loss of life, especially from vulnerable groups.

In the human rights perspective, said Anis, civilians must receive maximum protection from all parties, especially the state.

In addition, Komnas HAM asked all parties, both security forces and TPNPB-OPM, to refrain from targeting civilians in armed conflicts.

"The approach to law enforcement and security must be carried out professionally, measured, and still respect human rights principles," he said.

Komnas HAM also asked the central and regional governments to immediately take steps to protect and rehabilitate the victims, both in terms of health and psychology, and to ensure that civilians do not evacuate for security reasons.

Furthermore, Komnas HAM urges the TNI Commander to evaluate the enforcement operations carried out and ensure that the law enforcement process is carried out professionally, transparently, and thoroughly.

Currently, Komnas HAM is still collecting information and coordinating with various parties to ensure the number of victims and conditions on the ground.

Komnas HAM emphasized that it would take further monitoring steps in accordance with the applicable mechanism to ensure that human rights protection was maintained in the conflict area.

Previously, the Governor of Central Papua Meki Nawipa stated that armed conflicts between the TNI/Polri and OPM should not sacrifice civilians, especially women and children.

"We condemn imprecise actions, where children and women are victims," he said.