TNI Affirms Teachers And Health Workers In Yahukimo Are Purely Professional, Not Involved In Task Force

A TNI soldier bribed a toddler in Papua. (IST)

JAKARTA - A brutal attack on teachers and health workers in Anggruk District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua, March 21, 2025, sparked deep sorrow. Within two days, the Armed Criminal Group of the Free Papua Organization (OPM) attacked and killed Rosalia Rerek Sogen, a highly dedicated teacher.

The first attack took place on March 21 at 16.00 WIT by 10'15 gunmen. The next morning, eight perpetrators attacked again. Rosalia was found dead, three of her colleagues were seriously injured, three were slightly injured. The Anggruk district, which has been known to be relatively safe, has turned into a location of terror that claimed the lives of educators.

Rosalia, a graduate of the FKIP Mathematics University of Nusa Cendana Kupang, is known as a smart and simple figure. Since being contracted by the Yahukimo Regency Government in 2021, she teaches with full responsibility. Coming from Larantuka Lewotala, NTT, Rosalia left deep sadness in the hearts of many people who remember her as an unconditional teacher.

Major General of the TNI Kristomei Sianturi, Head of the TNI Information Center, emphasized that all educators and health workers in Yahukimo are civil professionals who are not related to the TNI Task Force. They are purely working for the community, never affiliated with military duties," Kristomei said at TNI Headquarters, Cilangkap, Monday (7/7/2025).

The local government together with the Serafim Foundation ensured that teachers and health workers stationed in 33 districts had passed the strict selection. Their assignment is only for public services without any military elements.

This attack incident is not just an act of violence against individuals. The TNI calls it a crime against humanity that threatens efforts to build Papuan human resources. The TNI and Yahukimo Regency are committed to providing maximum protection for teachers and health workers so that they can continue to carry out their duties without fear.