A new wave of violence has erupted in Papua, Indonesia, as armed separatist groups, commonly referred to by authorities as the Armed Criminal Group (Kelompok Kriminal Bersenjata or KKB), launched coordinated attacks that have left at least three civilians dead, dozens of homes destroyed, and key public infrastructure in ashes. The incidents, which took place across the regencies of Puncak and Puncak Jaya, have once again shaken local communities and posed severe challenges to state security forces striving to restore order in the restive region.
Brutal Assault on Civilians in Puncak
On June 19, 2025 armed members of the KKB descended upon a village in Omukia District, Puncak Regency, committing acts of terror that killed three residents and injured others. At least 11 houses were burned to the ground in the assault, displacing families and creating an atmosphere of deep fear.
According to Papua Police spokesperson Commissioner Ignatius Benny Prabowo, the victims were local civilians with no involvement in political or military activities. “This was a deliberate and brutal attack targeting innocent villagers,” he stated. The perpetrators, believed to be part of the notorious KKB faction led by Aibon Kogoya, fled into the nearby forest after the attack.
In response, local police, backed by TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces), immediately launched a security operation in the affected area. Drones and surveillance teams have been deployed to track the militants’ movements.
Government Buildings Torched in Puncak Jaya
Just two days later, on Friday, June 21, unidentified armed individuals—presumed to be members of a KKB faction—set fire to three major government buildings in Puncak Jaya. The offices of the local DPRD (Regional House of Representatives), the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the Regional Finance Agency were reduced to rubble in a coordinated arson attack carried out around 2:00 a.m.
The incident marks one of the boldest acts of defiance against the Indonesian state in recent months, as the attackers targeted symbols of government authority. Local witnesses reported hearing gunshots during the attacks, which forced residents to flee and hide in nearby jungles.
“We condemn these actions in the strongest terms,” said acting Puncak Jaya Regent, Yonas Tinal. “These acts are not just attacks on buildings; they are attacks on public service and peace.”
Police and Military Response
In the wake of these attacks, Indonesian police have intensified operations in Papua’s central highlands. National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo issued a directive for additional personnel and resources to be sent to the conflict-affected zones. Special counter-terrorism units such as Satgas Nemangkawi and the Damai Cartenz Task Force have been mobilized to assist in securing the region and apprehending those responsible.
Commander of Cartenz Peace Task Force, Police Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, emphasized that their mission is not only security enforcement but also the protection of civilians and the restoration of normal life. “We are committed to stabilizing the area, providing humanitarian assistance, and enabling people to return to their homes,” he said.
Meanwhile, local governments have coordinated with the Ministry of Social Affairs to begin delivering emergency aid to victims. Temporary shelters are being set up for displaced families, and trauma counseling services are being arranged for survivors and witnesses.
A Cycle of Violence and Fear
The recent attacks have underscored the fragile security situation in Papua, where separatist sentiments continue to simmer amid historical grievances, social inequality, and development gaps. While the Indonesian government has repeatedly expressed commitment to peacebuilding and dialogue, escalating violence from armed groups continues to disrupt civilian life and development programs.
Calls for Unity and Reconstruction
Despite the fear and trauma caused by the attacks, local leaders and religious figures have called for unity and resilience among the people of Papua. The burning of the Ministry of Religious Affairs office, in particular, has drawn condemnation from interfaith communities across Indonesia, emphasizing that places of peace and service must remain untouched by political violence.
“We will not let terror define our future,” said Rev. Philip Matuan, a pastor in Puncak Jaya. “Papua needs healing, not more bloodshed.”
Government’s Broader Strategy in Papua
The government’s broader approach to security in Papua now includes both hard and soft tactics. While military operations are aimed at rooting out armed militants, simultaneous efforts are being made to develop infrastructure, provide education, and engage communities in dialogue.
Programs like the Presidential Instruction on Papua Development (Inpres Papua) and the Papua Special Autonomy Fund are being channeled to improve living conditions and address longstanding disparities. President Joko Widodo has repeatedly emphasized that peace in Papua will be achieved not only through force but also through inclusive development.
Conclusion
The recent series of terror acts in Puncak and Puncak Jaya reveal the daunting challenge Indonesia faces in balancing counterinsurgency with human security in Papua. While law enforcement continues to pursue justice for the victims and restore order, the long-term peace in Papua will depend on sustained investment in trust, rights, and dignity for all communities.
As the ashes of burned buildings cool and families mourn their loved ones, one thing remains clear: peace in Papua requires more than security—it requires unity, justice, and hope.
