TPNPB OPM Threatens to Shoot Road and Bridge Workers in Intan Jaya

7 hours ago 4

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Organization (TPNPB OPM) Kodap VIII Intan Jaya threatened to launch a military operation if the Indonesian government continues the construction of roads from Nabire to Ilaga and from Sugapa to Ugimba. The threats were conveyed by the Deputy Commander of TPNPB Kodap VIII Intan Jaya, Colonel Apeni Kobogau, through the Management of the TPNPB Central Headquarters.

"We are prepared to shoot the road workers because all the workers are part of the Indonesian military apparatus," said TPNPB-OPM spokesperson Sebby Sambom in a statement on Monday, June 16, 2025.

They also demanded the cessation of civil aircraft flights to Intan Jaya. They accused the aircraft of transporting Indonesian military personnel from Nabire and Timika to Intan Jaya.

Threats of execution were also directed at the West Papua Army (WPA) by TPNPB Kodap VIII Intan Jaya. They were asked to stop monitoring the construction of the road from Magataga to Ugimba. If the road construction continues, TPNPB Intan Jaya will burn all the heavy equipment used for construction and shoot the road workers. "The Regent of Intan Jaya, Head of the Village Community Empowerment Agency (BPMK) Yoakim Mujizau, is ready to take responsibility," he said.

Sebby added that the TPNPB Central Headquarters management urged all road workers in Intan Jaya to immediately cease construction activities. TPNPB OPM will not hesitate to shoot if road construction continues.

The construction of roads and bridges is considered to facilitate military operations in Intan Jaya and the entry of companies into Intan Jaya. TPNPB considers the construction to potentially lead to shooting of civilians. "Thus, shooting of mothers and small children may occur," he said.

TPNPB OPM also urged all Papuan people and TPNPB forces in 36 Defense Regional Commands to close down illegal gold mines allegedly managed by the Indonesian military. They allow the Papuan people to search for gold themselves as long as they do not collaborate with Indonesian intelligence, with the threat of execution if discovered.

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