Ipda Merlyn, Doctor, Policewoman, the Only Peaceful Cartenz Through the KKB Nest

PAPUA – Ipda dr. Egenesia Merlyn Suarlembit did not expect that when she volunteered to be part of the 2023 Carstensz Peaceful Operations Task Force she would be accepted. She is the only female police officer (polwan) who goes to areas where there are armed criminal groups (KKB).

Previously there were also doctors who joined the Carstensz Peace Task Force 2022. However, all of them were male police doctors. He himself did not really have high hopes, because the condition in Papua last year was not conducive because there were many cases of violence perpetrated by the KKB.

“But all of a sudden I was accepted to enter the Carstensz Peaceful Operation and I was also surprised when a sprint (order) was sent from the National Police Headquarters, I saw in the sprint it turned out that I myself was a Polwan doctor and I was accompanied by my male colleagues. there are also three men. But they are in a different place,” he explained to reporters, Wednesday (8/3/2023).

During the assignment, the woman with Moluccan blood was at the Jayapura command post. However, when there was an assignment, Merlyn always moved places both in Intan Jaya, Lanny Jaya, Yahukimo and other areas which were prone to conflicts with the KKB.

“Maybe we don’t know when there will be contact, when there will be attacks and so on from the KKB side. So every trip there must be a feeling of worry and always be vigilant, that’s all, “he said.

But while on duty in the field, he always uses a bulletproof vest and helmet. When in a conducive place, Merly said that he always mingled with the community and checked their health. This is what he continues to do to also provide free medical treatment to those in need.

Being in the all-male Carstensz Peace squad, he admits it was awkward at first. However, for almost three months, I was able to adjust. “Because when else will I be given the chance to take part in Ope