Papua rights group demands independent probe into alleged abduction

The Justice and Integrity of Papua Foundation (YKKMP) is calling for an independent investigation into reports that nine women have been taken captive in the remote district of Jila, Mimika Regency, Papua.

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If there are two different versions, then an independent investigation is needed. We cannot accuse as if it is news made by the OPM.

The situation is shrouded in conflicting information, as the West Papua National Liberation Army-OPM has denied the allegations. Theo Hesegem, chairman of YKKMP, stated that neither his organization nor the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) have received concrete reports about the alleged captivity.

Hesegem emphasized the need for an independent verification mechanism due to the contradictory statements from security forces and the TPNPB-OPM. He noted that the mutual accusations between the Indonesian military (TNI-Polri) and the TPNPB-OPM often make it difficult for the public to ascertain the truth on the ground.

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Komnas HAM as a state institution that is mandated and trusted by the state must conduct an independent investigation and convey to the public whether it is true or not.

"If there are two different versions, then an independent investigation is needed. We cannot accuse as if it is news made by the OPM," Hesegem said. He urged Komnas HAM, as a state institution with a mandate to uncover human rights violations, to conduct a thorough investigation and present the findings to the public.

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Don't disturb the team investigating the case so that it can be done independently. If there is interference, it will be very difficult to prove the facts.

This verification is crucial to prevent further confusion among the Papuan population, who are often caught in the crossfire of conflicting narratives. YKKMP also requested that both the TNI and TPNPB refrain from interfering with the independent investigation team to ensure objectivity. Hesegem expressed skepticism about the claims, suggesting the reports might have emerged as a fabrication following an attack by the OPM on a TNI post in Jila, indicating a potential "false" element to the story.

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Because this kidnapping emerged after the OPM attacked a TNI post in Jila. After that incident, this news appeared. This means there is an indication of falsehood.