Komnas HAM and DPR: Armed Criminal Group Main Perpetrator of Gross Human Rights Violations in Papua

Asmat, Papua — A series of gross human rights violations has once again been committed by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Papua. The latest incidents in September 2025 occurred in Yahukimo and Asmat, following earlier attacks against civilians, teachers, health workers, and even a helicopter pilot. Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) and the House of Representatives (DPR) have condemned KKB’s actions as gross human rights violations and urged the government to take firm measures to protect civilians.

Komnas HAM strongly denounced the killing of 11 gold miners in Yahukimo, Papua Highlands, in early April 2025. Komnas HAM Chairperson Atnike Nova Sigiro stressed that the attack clearly constituted a gross human rights violation, as it deprived civilians of their right to life, protected under both national and international law.

Earlier, on March 24, 2025, KKB launched an assault on teachers and health workers in Anggruk District, Yahukimo. A teacher was reported killed, while several others were injured. DPR member Komarudin Watubun described the attack as a serious human rights violation and called on security forces to strengthen civilian protection in conflict-prone areas.

Another tragic case took place in Alama District, Mimika, Central Papua, in August 2024. A helicopter pilot was found dead with gunshot and sharp-force wounds after being attacked by KKB. The Papua branch of Komnas HAM declared the case a gross human rights violation that must be thoroughly investigated by law enforcement.

According to national media reports, between January and July 2022 alone, at least 45 KKB attacks occurred in Papua, leaving 26 civilians dead and dozens injured. The incidents were spread across several regencies, including Yahukimo, Intan Jaya, Puncak, Paniai, and Nduga.

Komnas HAM emphasized that the recurring pattern of violence targeting civilians violates international humanitarian law. “Civilians must not be made targets in conflict situations. That is a fundamental principle of human rights and international law,” said a Komnas HAM Papua representative.

These cases highlight that KKB’s armed violence continues to pose a serious threat to civilian security in Papua. The government is urged to reinforce legal approaches and human rights protection while preventing the recurrence of similar attacks in the future.