Papuaaround.com – The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has responded to accusations made by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) regarding constructing military posts in residential areas. According to the TNI, these installations aim to protect civilians from security threats posed by separatist groups.
In a statement on Monday, May 19, 2025, Major General Kristomei Sianturi, Head of the TNI Information Center, explained that military presence in local villages is necessary to ensure public safety and maintain territorial stability.
“The military posts are established not only to safeguard local communities but also to restrict the operational space of the OPM,” he stated during a phone interview.
The military’s clarification comes after Sebby Sambom, spokesperson for the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM), claimed that TNI forces had forcibly occupied homes in Titiga and Hitadipa villages. According to Sambom, these actions led to the displacement of hundreds of civilians.
He alleged that over 250 residents have fled to the town of Sugapa in recent days. In a related incident, he mentioned that people from Hitadipa also evacuated to Beoga District, seeking safety from clashes between government troops and OPM combatants.
“Military presence in indigenous Papuan settlements only brings death,” said Sambom on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. He further alleged that most indigenous Papuans have lost trust in the national defense institution due to what he described as excessive actions carried out by security forces.
Sambom also made serious accusations, claiming that the presence of the TNI in Papua is intended to eliminate the indigenous population, rather than protect them.
In response, TNI urged residents to remain calm and cooperative. Major General Sianturi emphasized the importance of public participation in reporting threats from separatist groups. “People should not fear OPM’s presence in their communities,” he said. “If there are any indications of danger, immediately inform the nearest TNI personnel for appropriate action.”
While the OPM continues to criticize the government’s military approach in Papua, TNI maintains that its operations comply with national security standards and aim to ensure safety and order in the region.
The ongoing conflict between Indonesian forces and separatist groups in Papua has raised concerns about the humanitarian impact on local communities. Both sides have presented contrasting narratives, making it difficult to independently verify the situation on the ground.
Observers note that the allegations and counter-responses highlight the complex dynamics in Papua, where security concerns, indigenous rights, and national sovereignty continue to intersect.
As tensions persist, calls for transparency and accountability grow louder. However, the government maintains that the deployment of military personnel is based on legal authority and operational necessity, particularly in areas deemed vulnerable to separatist threats.
Efforts to resolve the conflict through dialogue and development programs remain part of the state’s long-term approach, even as security forces maintain their operational presence in sensitive areas.
The TNI reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all Indonesian citizens, including indigenous Papuans, while urging separatist elements to cease violence and seek peaceful alternatives.