Indonesia: Crisis continues in Papua, as separatist rebels refuse to surrender Dec. 11

Event

Papuan separatists responsible for the assassination of at least 16 construction workers in Yigi district (Papua province) on December 4, have rejected government calls to surrender on December 11. Rebels have vowed to continue their insurgency and their fight for an independent Papua. As such, further attacks are possible in the near-term in Papua Province, along with a heightened security presence.

Context

Papuan independence fighters, known as the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), have engaged in an ongoing low-level guerrilla rebellion since Indonesian independence in the 1960s.

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 home governments, and avoid all public demonstrations. Travel to Papua and West Papua requires a permit Many Western government advise against nonessential travel to Papua and West Papua due to the threat of civil unrest and kidnapping.