Violence in Papua: Indonesian Forces Pursue Justice After Brutal Killings in Yahukimo
Yahukimo, Papua — Indonesian security forces are intensifying their pursuit of armed separatist groups following a brutal massacre in Yahukimo Regency, Papua. The coordinated attack, allegedly carried out by the self-proclaimed Kodap XVI Yahukimo and Kodap III Ndugama factions, targeted local gold miners in the remote areas of Site 22 and Muara Kum, drawing deep concern from the local community and human rights observers.
On Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. local time, a joint military-police team successfully evacuated two bodies to Dekai Regional Hospital for forensic examination. The autopsies, conducted the following day, revealed severe injuries. One male victim was found with deep wounds to the face and neck, as well as a stab wound to the left abdomen. The second victim, discovered with multiple stab wounds and arrow injuries, also showed signs of advanced decomposition due to limited refrigeration facilities. Dr. Glent M. Nurtanio, Director of Dekai Hospital, emphasized the urgency of immediate handling to prevent health risks.
The identification process followed the Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) protocol, with forensic experts from Bhayangkara Hospital in Jayapura ensuring the accuracy of the data. In addition to the two bodies brought to Dekai, another victim was evacuated to Boven Digoel, while poor weather conditions have delayed the retrieval of five more bodies. Meanwhile, Dani, the village head, and his wife Geby—previously held hostage by the attackers—were rescued and flown to Dekai Airport on the morning of April 10. Medical teams confirmed their physical condition was stable upon arrival.
Indonesian National Police and Armed Forces continue to patrol key areas across Yahukimo and are actively pursuing the perpetrators. The joint task force under Operation Peace Cartenz 2025 has reiterated its commitment to restore order and safeguard civilians in the region, despite ongoing challenges in responding to this humanitarian and security crisis.
