ASIATODAY.ID, JAYAPURA – An armed separatist group affiliated with the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) – Free Papua Movement (OPM) in Indonesia claimed responsibility for the attack on six teachers and medical personnel in Anggruk District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Mountains, on Friday, March 21, 2025.
TPNPB-OPM Spokesperson, Sebby Sembom, stated that his party had indeed ordered the attack and had executed the victims and burned down the building they called the house of an Indonesian intelligence agent.
“We are responsible for this attack and we have killed six teachers and medical personnel and burned down the houses of intelligence agents,” said Sebby in a press release received on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
Sebby explained that the victims were targeted for execution because they were considered part of the state apparatus or agents working in the Papua region.
“We have indeed ordered to execute, because all of them are officers,” he continued.
Based on the information gathered, the attack occurred around the Anggruk Christian Education Foundation Elementary School, Anggruk District, Yahukimo Regency, on Friday afternoon.
Motive for the Attack
Head of the TNI Information Center, Brigadier General Kristomei Sianturi, revealed that the motive for the attack and murder of the OPM group led by Elkius Kobak was because the request for money from the teaching staff was not fulfilled.
One teacher who died was named Rosalina (30). The victim was found dead with injuries due to violence.
Kristomei said that in addition to one fatality, six people were injured. Meanwhile, local educational facilities were burned down.
“Because the demand was not met, this group carried out acts of violence and murder, and abused six teachers. Then, they burned down school buildings and teachers’ houses, and caused fear in the community,” said Kristimei in his statement, Sunday, March 24, 2025.
Kristomei explained that the TNI had evacuated the teachers and health workers who were killed.
“As a quick response, the TNI together with related authorities have succeeded in evacuating 42 teachers and health workers from Yahukimo to Jayapura. We are increasing security in vulnerable areas and continue to coordinate with the local government to take firm action against the perpetrators of this attack,” he said.
He said that the presence of educators and health workers in Papua is very important for the progress and future of the local community. Therefore, the TNI will continue to support protection and ensure security in areas that have the potential to experience security disturbances.
“The TNI will not remain silent about these barbaric and cowardly actions. This threatens the safety of civilians and security stability in Papua,” said Kristimei. (AT Network)
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