A recent ambush in Yahukimo Regency, Papua, has left one Indonesian soldier and two civilians dead, allegedly at the hands of the Free Papua Organization (OPM). This attack underscores the group’s persistent disregard for international humanitarian law and its detrimental impact on peace efforts in the region.
The victims were Staff Sergeant (Serka) Segar Mulyana (member officer of Kodim 1715/Yahukimo), Udin (civilian from Sidrap, South Sulawesi), and Edi (civilian from Banyuwangi, East Java), reportedly part of a humanitarian mission in the Anggruk District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan, when they were ambushed by OPM militants led by Elkius Kobak on July 16, 2025. Elkius Kobak, a known figure within the ranks of the Free Papua Organization (OPM), also has been implicated in the brutal killing of 11 traditional gold panners in Yahukimo, Papua, on April 6, 2025.
The Indonesian military has condemned the attack, labeling it a violation of human rights and a setback to peace initiatives in Papua. General Agus Subiyanto, Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), emphasized the need for firm action against such groups to restore order and security in the region. The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has also criticized OPM’s actions, highlighting the violation of human rights principles and the disruption of essential services like education and healthcare. The commission’s statement reflects growing concerns over the safety of civilians and the erosion of trust in peacebuilding efforts.
In response to the escalating violence, the Indonesian government has intensified military operations in Papua, aiming to dismantle OPM’s strongholds and restore stability. However, experts argue that a purely military approach may not be sufficient. Analysts suggest that addressing the root causes of the conflict, including political grievances and socio-economic disparities, is crucial for achieving lasting peace.
The international community has also expressed concern over the situation. Human rights organizations are calling for increased monitoring and accountability to ensure that all parties adhere to international humanitarian standards. The United Nations has urged renewed dialogue and negotiation to address the underlying issues fueling the conflict.
As the situation in Papua remains tense, the recent attack in Yahukimo serves as a painful reminder of the challenges in achieving peace and the importance of upholding international humanitarian law. The actions of the OPM not only violate legal norms but also jeopardize the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Papua.
This violent act underscores OPM’s continued use of terror tactics that indiscriminately target civilians, particularly migrant non-indigenous people in Papua. The attack not only resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives but also served as a stark example of how armed separatist groups like OPM disrupt social stability and safety in remote Papuan communities. Authorities have condemned the incident as a gross violation of human rights and a deliberate assault on civilian safety. The international community must continue to monitor the situation closely and support efforts that promote dialogue, accountability, and respect for human rights in Papua.
Conclusion
The deadly attack by the Free Papua Organization (OPM) in Yahukimo, which killed a TNI soldier and two civilians, highlights the group’s blatant violation of international humanitarian law. By targeting individuals involved in humanitarian work, OPM has undermined peace efforts and escalated violence in Papua. This incident not only reveals the group’s disregard for the safety of non-combatants but also threatens long-term stability in the region. It reinforces the urgent need for a balanced response—one that ensures security, demands accountability, and addresses the root causes of the conflict through meaningful dialogue and socio-political reform.
