Indonesia: Further violence reported in Papua October 25 /update 12

Event

Rebels in Papua province killed three people in Intan Jaya region on Friday, October 25. The West Papua National Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack, claiming that they were undercover agents working for the military. However, local officials claim that the victims were taxi drivers. Further violence is anticipated in the region in the near term.

Context

Demonstrations in Papua and West Papua began after security forces stormed a university dormitory in Surabaya on August 17, rounding up 43 students accused of desecrating the Indonesian flag. The students, who were reportedly subjected to racial abuse, were released from custody on August 18. Thousands of people have participated in the protests, which have been held in Manokwari, Sorong, Jayapura, and other cities in the province.

Advice

Individuals in Indonesia are advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution when traveling to Papua and West Papua, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. travel permits) and their home governments, and avoid all public demonstrations.