TNI Evacuates 44 Mountain Papua Residents who Fled from OPM

JAKARTA - The TNI through Koops Habema evacuated 44 gold miners who fled from Kawe Village, Awimbon District, Pegunungan Bintang Regency, Papua Mountains because they were afraid of the existence of the Free Papua Organization (OPM) which was operating in the area.

"This evacuation is a form of the state's presence in providing protection to civilians affected by the situation of security disturbances in the mountainous Papua interior," said Head of Information Koops Habema Lieutenant Colonel Inf M. Wirya Arthadiguna as reported by ANTARA, Monday, May 25.

However, Wirya did not explain in detail the chronology of how they could escape from the OPM gang.

Wirya only explained that the evacuation process began when the 44 residents arrived at Tanah Merah Port, Boven Digoel Regency using three long boats from Kawe Village, Awimbon District.

Upon arrival at Tanah Merah Port, all residents immediately received security and assistance from Koops TNI Habema personnel along with joint personnel to undergo data collection, examination, and continued security.

After accompanying the residents, Koops Habema personnel immediately increased security in several areas to ensure the public was safe.

"Koops TNI Habema together with related authorities continue to ensure that the security situation remains conducive and increase security measures to prevent further security disturbances," he said.

Wirya ensured that until now, the 44 residents had received the best service from his staff.

Until now, his party continues to strengthen the synergy of related authorities to ensure that all areas are safe from OPM activities.