Papuan Police Chief: No Force, Residents Secure Yourself In Kenyam To Avoid KKB

Papua Police Chief Inspector General Pol. Mathius Fakhiri. (Doc. ANTARA)

JAYAPURA - Papua Police Chief Inspector General Pol. Mathius Fakhiri confirmed that residents in a number of villages are currently in Kenyam, Nduga Regency to avoid interference from armed criminal groups (KKB).

On Saturday in Jayapura, Fakhiri stated that the TNI/Polri, together with the Nduga Regency Government, had asked the public to temporarily stay in Kenyam to anticipate security disturbances.

This, he continued, is currently being carried out by efforts to release New Zealand national pilots who are being held hostage by the KKB.

The Regional Police Chief denied that there was coercion against residents to leave their villages. That's because of the awareness of those who are afraid of KKB disturbances who often commit terror.

He said that people were afraid so they were willing to walk for several days before finally the security forces helped them.

"KKB members also often disturb the community so they experience fear," Fakhiri said as quoted by ANTARA, Saturday, April 15.

While in Kenyam, he continued, they were assisted by the Nduga Regency Government, especially daily necessities.

When asked about the rescue of the hostages, the Papuan Police Chief emphasized that currently it is still ongoing by involving community leaders from Nduga Regency.

"Hopefully in the near future we can be released in good health," concluded Fakhiri.

Pilot Susi Air Philip has been held hostage since February 7 after landing his plane in Paro, Nduga Regency.