Following the operation, approximately 950 residents from 13 local churches fled their homes in fear. The mass displacement has further exacerbated tensions and humanitarian concerns in the area, prompting calls for an independent investigation.

Amnesty International condemned the use of force in civilian areas and demanded a thorough probe into the security forces’ actions in Intan Jaya. The group also called for a broader review of the deployment of security forces in Papua, which has repeatedly resulted in civilian harm over the years.

Local police in Sorong had earlier announced the arrest of the four NFRPB members on May 5, charging them with treason and hate speech. Authorities claimed the suspects called for “Papuan independence” and carried documents, uniforms, and identity cards linked to the NFRPB organization.

The activists now face serious legal consequences under a series of criminal and electronic information laws, including Articles 106 and 187 of the Criminal Code, as well as the amended Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison or even life sentences.

The Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) also reported on the Intan Jaya violence, citing information from the Evangelical Tent Church. According to their report, the military operation targeted civilian villages during the early hours of May 13 and resulted in both casualties and mass displacement.

Amnesty International clarified that it does not support or oppose any political status or independence movements in Indonesia. However, the organization reaffirmed that all individuals have the right to peacefully express political views and seek alternative political solutions without fear of repression or criminal charges.(Uki Ruknuddin)

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