Papuaaround.com – Unrest broke out in Elelim, Yalimo Regency, Mountainous Papua, on Tuesday, September 16, resulting in several injuries and significant property damage. Papua Regional Police reported that at least eight people were hurt in the incident, including security personnel and civilians.
According to police information, five members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces and the police were among those injured, while three others were local residents. Authorities stated that all victims have received medical treatment, though the severity of their injuries has not been fully disclosed.
In addition to the casualties, the unrest caused widespread damage to public and private property. Thirty kiosks and houses were reported destroyed by fire. Thirteen motorcycles were burned, and a police operational vehicle suffered severe damage. Six residential barracks and one officer’s quarters belonging to the Yalimo Police were also set ablaze.
The disturbance reportedly stemmed from a quarrel among students at Elelim Senior High School. During class, one student, identified by his initials AB, allegedly made a remark that offended another classmate. The comment triggered a violent reaction, leading to AB being assaulted by several peers.
Teachers attempted to defuse the situation and brought the matter to the teachers’ office. However, tensions escalated instead of subsiding. The altercation drew the attention of more students and community members, some of whom attacked AB further. A teacher who tried to mediate was also reportedly targeted.
As the conflict spread beyond the school grounds in Yalimo, a group set fire to a kiosk allegedly owned by AB’s parents. The blaze quickly extended to nearby police housing and other structures in Elelim. The fires consumed multiple buildings before security forces were able to restore order.
Authorities have since deployed additional personnel to the area to prevent further incidents. Security forces remain on guard around the town, particularly near vulnerable facilities, to ensure no follow-up attacks occur.
Police emphasized that investigations are ongoing to determine those responsible for inciting the violence and carrying out the arson attacks. Local officials have also urged residents to remain calm and avoid being provoked by misinformation or rumors that could inflame tensions.
Incidents of violence in Papua’s highland regions have historically involved both social and political factors, often resulting in casualties and significant property losses. The Elelim unrest highlights the fragile security situation in certain districts and the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining stability.
Community leaders in Yalimo are expected to play a role in restoring peace by encouraging dialogue among residents and urging restraint, particularly among young people. Observers noted that schools and public facilities should remain safe spaces for education and community activities, and any disputes must be resolved through peaceful means rather than violence.
For now, the situation in Elelim remains under close monitoring. Authorities have assured that law enforcement will continue to take necessary measures to protect the public and prevent any escalation of the conflict.