TPNPB-OPM Claims Restriction of Health Workers Access in Papua

The West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Organization (TPNPB-OPM) has escalated its conflict with Indonesian authorities by declaring a ban on Indonesian health workers, especially those affiliated with the military, from entering Papua. In a statement released on April 17, 2026, TPNPB-OPM spokesperson Sebby Sambom asserted that the group's decision stems from a perceived deterioration of medical treatment for the Papuan community at the hands of these health workers.

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We urge the international Red Cross to be able to handle the injured Papuan civilians.

This move signals a significant challenge to the Indonesian government's efforts to provide healthcare in the region. The TPNPB-OPM is actively seeking the intervention of the international Red Cross, urging it to take over the provision of medical services for injured Papuan civilians. Sambom explicitly stated that the involvement of international humanitarian organizations is necessary to ensure comprehensive care, alleging that several civilian victims treated by Indonesian military and police health workers have experienced worsening conditions rather than improvement.

The TPNPB-OPM has issued a stern warning to all Indonesian medical personnel to evacuate Papua immediately for their own safety. This threat comes amidst reports, referenced by Sambom, suggesting that over 107,000 Papuans are currently residing in refugee camps with severely compromised health conditions. The organization is calling on Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to facilitate the entry of the international Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations into Papua.

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We warn Indonesian medical personnel to leave Papua immediately for their safety.

From the perspective of the TPNPB-OPM and many in the Papuan community, this action is framed as a necessary measure to protect their people from what they perceive as inadequate or harmful medical interventions by Indonesian state actors. While international media might report this as a security issue or a disruption of essential services, the TPNPB-OPM presents it as a humanitarian appeal and a demand for self-determination in healthcare provision. They view the presence of Indonesian military-affiliated health workers as part of a broader oppressive apparatus, and thus, their exclusion is seen as a step towards reclaiming control over their own well-being. The Indonesian military has yet to formally respond to these claims, leaving a vacuum that the TPNPB-OPM seeks to fill with international humanitarian aid.

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We urge President Prabowo Subianto to immediately open access to the international Red Cross and humanitarian organizations to enter Papua.