Indonesia: Internet access partly restored in Papua and West Papua provinces September 4 /update 8

Event

The Communication Ministry stated in the late afternoon/evening (local time) on Wednesday September 4, that internet access has been partially restored in 29 districts across Papua and West Papua provinces, following a shutdown imposed on August 21 in response to unrests in both areas. Internet services remain, however, suspended until further notice in Jayapura, the capital of the Papua province, and in Manokwari the capital of the West Papua Province, as well as in Deiyai (Papua) and other rural towns, where deadly protests were reported between Monday, August 26, and Saturday, August 31.

Residual internet and communication disruptions are likely in other areas of Papua over the coming days. Related demonstrations are possible amid a heightened security presence. Clashes between protesting residents and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Violent protests have taken place in West Papua and Papua provinces since August 18, leading officials to cut internet access and deploy additional police officers in the region. At least 41 people have been arrested and two students charged for treason in Jakarta. Four Australian nationals were also deported out of the country on September 2 after allegedly participating to unrest in Sorong on August 22. According to official sources, at least ten people were killed, although the exact number remains unclear due to the internet blackout.

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, prepare for continuing telecommunication disruptions and avoid all public demonstrations.