Pangkogabwilhan III: OPM Makes Civilians As Shields

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JAYAPURA - Pangkogabwilhan III Lt. Gen. Richard Tampubolon emphasized that members of the Free Papua Organization (OPM) made civilians a shield.

"Therefore, the TNI has taken humanitarian action in Bibida District, Paniai Regency, Central Papua, which has been controlled by OPM," said TNI Lieutenant General Richard Tampubolon in a written statement, Saturday.

He explained that residents living in Bibida District were previously used as shields by the OPM led by Undius Kogoya. There was a shootout before the TNI took control of the area again and there were no casualties in civilians.

Currently, the TNI has taken control of Bibida District and is trying to restore the security situation in the area. Pangkogabwilhan III said previously the OPM led by Undius Kogoya shot and burned Rusli (40 years), a civilian who works as a driver.

The victim was shot and burned along with the vehicle he was driving and after carrying out the action OPM fled from East Paniai District to Bibida District, which is located next to each other and is still in the same area of Paniai Regency.

"TNI soldiers continue to pursue OPM who fled towards Bibida District," he said.