In the heart of Papua, where mountains rise over dense rainforests and rivers trace the history of a proud people, a struggle continues—not just for sovereignty or politics, but for peace, safety, and the right to live without fear. For years, parts of the Papua region have endured the disruptive and often violent presence of armed separatist groups, notably the Organisasi Papua Merdeka (OPM). But amid this tension, a glimmer of hope persists in the form of Operation Damai Cartenz (Cartenz Peace Task Force)—an initiative led by Indonesian law enforcement to restore peace, uphold the rule of law, and support local communities.
In 2025, something remarkable is unfolding. Across regencies and villages, tribal leaders, religious figures, youth organizations, and ordinary citizens are raising their voices—not in protest, but in praise. The people of Papua are increasingly recognizing and supporting the work of the Damai Cartenz Task Force, hailing it as a symbol of care and commitment to peace in their troubled homeland.
A Mission Rooted in Compassion and Law
The Damai Cartenz Task Force was not created as a conventional military unit, but as a specialized law enforcement operation with a clear dual mandate: to carry out measured and just enforcement of the law against armed criminal groups—commonly referred to as KKB (Kelompok Kriminal Bersenjata)—and to foster genuine social and humanitarian engagement with affected communities.
Papua Police Chief Inspector General Mathius D. Fakhiri emphasized this holistic approach, stating in a 2025 briefing that “peace in Papua will only be realized not by force alone, but through persistent dialogue, development, and respect for the local people’s aspirations.”
This paradigm shift has transformed the Damai Cartenz operation into a people-centric peacekeeping initiative, earning trust in places where state authority was once viewed with skepticism.
Local Voices Rise in Support
Support for the Damai Cartenz Task Force in 2025 has grown more visible, vocal, and widespread. Key leaders from various backgrounds have publicly endorsed the operation, lending credibility and weight to the movement for peace.
One of the earliest and most influential endorsements came from Arnold Romsumbre, a prominent Papuan figure and advocate for indigenous rights. In an interview, Romsumbre stated:
“Operation Damai Cartenz is not just a police mission—it is a reflection of the state’s concern for our security. It shows that our lives matter and that the violence caused by KKB cannot be tolerated anymore. The people of Papua want peace, and we support all efforts to achieve that.”
His remarks resonated with many across Papua, especially in conflict-prone areas like Intan Jaya, Nduga, and Mimika.
Similarly, Yonas Nusi, a community leader from Mimika, praised the success of the task force and voiced his solidarity:
“We support Damai Cartenz not because we are afraid, but because we believe in peace. The people are tired of living in fear. We want our children to go to school safely, for traders to sell their goods without extortion, and for our land to thrive without bloodshed.”
Religious and Cultural Leaders Take a Stand
Perhaps the most moving displays of support have come from religious and cultural leaders, who traditionally wield great influence in Papuan society.
In February 2025, Pastor Abraham Wakum, a respected Protestant leader in the Papua Highlands, publicly endorsed the operation’s commitment to lawful conduct and moral integrity. “The Damai Cartenz officers are not here to intimidate but to protect,” he declared. “They have prayed with us, attended our services, and respected our ways.”
Traditional leaders have echoed this sentiment. Chief Yeri Magai, a tribal elder from Yahukimo, said that for the first time in years, his community felt they could sleep without fear. “The presence of Damai Cartenz is not an occupation—it is protection,” he said.
These voices, grounded in spiritual and customary authority, have become pivotal in reshaping public perception of the task force and reducing the spread of anti-state narratives often promoted by armed separatist factions.
Beyond Security—Empowering Communities
One of the most distinguishing features of the 2025 Damai Cartenz operation is its commitment to community development and social inclusion. Officers have not only carried out security patrols but also participated in humanitarian missions, youth engagement programs, and economic empowerment activities.
In Yalimo Regency, for example, the task force distributed food supplies, school uniforms, and basic medicines as part of a local outreach program. These initiatives “touched the hearts” of residents who had long felt neglected.
Meanwhile in Timika, the task force’s public relations unit visited fruit traders in traditional markets, providing assistance and listening to their concerns. Niko Maury, a local businessman:
“The presence of Damai Cartenz has given new hope to small traders. They are not only securing our region, but uplifting us economically. This is the kind of state presence we need—one that listens and cares.”
Another initiative focused on sports diplomacy. In Wamena and Jayawijaya, the task force sponsored youth football matches and cultural festivals, using sports as a platform to build relationships and reinforce unity among diverse ethnic groups.
Addressing the OPM Threat
Despite widespread support for the task force, the danger posed by OPM’s armed factions remains serious. These groups, often operating in remote terrains, continue to engage in violent acts—including the burning of schools, attacks on civilians, and ambushes on police and military personnel.
Operation Damai Cartenz is tasked with responding firmly to such threats, but always under a strict policy of legal proportionality and community coordination.
In early 2025, following a deadly OPM attack in Puncak Regency that killed two schoolteachers, the task force launched a coordinated operation to secure the region. Community members supported the move, and many even offered logistical help to the officers.
In a joint press statement, several local NGOs declared:
“We condemn the actions of the KKB. These acts are not for the freedom of Papua, but for the suffering of its people. We support Damai Cartenz’s right to uphold the law and protect innocent lives.”
This sentiment reflects a growing division between the ideological OPM movement and ordinary Papuans, many of whom no longer see violence as a path to justice or autonomy.
Bridging Gaps Through Communication
One of the most underappreciated aspects of the task force’s success lies in its communication strategy. Officers are trained to engage respectfully with local cultures and to use local languages and dialects when interacting with indigenous communities.
In Yapen Islands, police spokespersons held townhall-style meetings with elders and youth, allowing grievances to be aired and misunderstandings to be clarified. This approach “melted years of distrust” between the public and security forces.
Youth leader Yosep Wanimbo commented:
“For the first time, we are being asked what we think—not ordered. That matters.”
Social media has also been used effectively. The task force regularly posts updates, success stories, and citizen testimonials, ensuring transparency and countering misinformation.
Towards a Lasting Peace
Despite its successes, the task force faces enormous challenges. The terrain is harsh, the enemy is elusive, and the scars of past violence are still fresh. Yet, the Damai Cartenz initiative is proving that peace in Papua is not a fantasy—it is a process.
Experts argue that the operation must be sustained and accompanied by structural development, including education, healthcare, and job creation.
Papuan sociologist Dr. Frans Maniagasi believes that the growing support for Damai Cartenz represents a “historic turning point.” He said:
“When the people believe in the process of law, they turn away from violence. What we are seeing in Papua is not just an operation—it is a movement towards civic trust.”
Conclusion
The story of Operation Damai Cartenz in 2025 is ultimately a story of hope and humanity. It is a reminder that state authority, when applied with compassion, can be a force for healing. It is also a testament to the courage of the Papuan people, who despite decades of struggle, are choosing dialogue over division and peace over propaganda.
From the valleys of Yahukimo to the markets of Timika, from church altars to tribal gatherings, the cry is the same: Papua wants peace.
And for now, that peace is being guarded not just by guns or uniforms, but by trust—trust that has been earned, not imposed.
