Indonesia: Armed attack kills seven people in Seradala District, Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua Province, Oct. 16

Event

As of Oct. 18, Indonesian authorities have confirmed that at least seven mining workers were killed by members of the Armed Criminal Group (Kelompok Kriminal Bersenjata, KKB) at a gold mine in Seradala District, Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua Province, Oct. 16. Police rescued 11 workers following a shoot-out with the militants, and rescued 11 more in a second rescue operation. It is not clear if any survivors remain at the incident site. The attackers also burned down equipment and a worker's camp at the mine.

Possible security operations could prompt additional casualties. Authorities may impose curfews and checkpoints to limit movement to Yahukimo Regency as a precaution.

Seradala District is approximately 150 km (93.2 miles) southeast of Wamena.

Context

The KKB has been designated a terrorist organization by the Indonesian government. KKB attacks resulting in multiple civilian deaths are relatively rare, as the organization typically targets Indonesian soldiers and police officers, as well as workers and infrastructure of state-owned public facilities and foreign-owned resource extraction companies, specifically PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI). The incident highlights the threat posed by armed groups in the region and points to the continued tension between Indonesian authorities and people in Papua, who claim that the Indonesian central government racially discriminates against Papuans and that it does not sufficiently develop the provinces' infrastructure. On Feb. 7, 2023, the KKB kidnapped a New Zealand national in Nduga Regency, Highland Papua Province.

Advice

Exercise caution if operating in Yahukimo Regency. Avoid concentrations of security personnel and people due to the potential for clashes. Consider limiting movements until the situation stabilizes; remain inside if authorities order curfews. Check with local contacts before embarking on travel to or within Yakuhimo Regency, as reporting on violence may be delayed. Follow all official instructions.