TPNPB Claims Establishment of Military Post in Uwapa, Marga Jaya Residents Voice Rejection

NABIRE, TOMEI.ID | The Central Headquarters Management of the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) issued a press statement on Sunday, April 12, 2026, regarding the alleged establishment of a military post by Indonesian security forces in Uwapa District, Nabire Regency, Central Papua.

TPNPB spokesperson Sebby Sambom stated that his party had received reports from its internal network in Nabire about the deployment of 148 military personnel from Jakarta, who arrived on April 6, 2026, and were subsequently assigned to several operational areas across Papua.

TPNPB further claimed that on Saturday, April 11, 2026, Indonesian military personnel established a post in Marga Jaya Village (SP 1), Uwapa District. According to the group, the post was built on land they identify as customary land belonging to local indigenous communities.

The statement also noted that local indigenous residents had rejected the construction of the military post. However, allegations regarding threats against civilians by security forces, as conveyed by TPNPB, have not been independently verified.

In its appeal, TPNPB called on the central government, including the President, the Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, and the Minister of Defense, to halt the establishment of military posts in civilian residential areas. The group also emphasized the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law principles in situations of armed conflict.

TPNPB additionally declared the readiness of its forces across various regions in Papua to confront Indonesian security forces, indicating rising tensions in several areas, particularly in Nabire Regency and its surroundings.

Meanwhile, residents of Uwapa District, specifically in Marga Jaya Village, have also firmly expressed their rejection of the planned military post.

In their statement, residents stressed that Uwapa is not an uninhabited area, but a living space with longstanding social, economic, and cultural activities. They argued that the presence of a military post does not align with the needs and aspirations of the local community.

Residents voiced concerns that the construction could disrupt community stability, economic activities, and potentially trigger social tensions in an area that has remained relatively peaceful.

“The people of Uwapa District unanimously reject the establishment of a military post in our community. We are concerned about changes to the character of our area and potential social impacts,” the statement read.

Residents also urged authorities to reconsider the plan by prioritizing community welfare and maintaining social harmony, while encouraging dialogue to reach a solution that does not disadvantage local communities.

As of this report, there has been no official statement from the Indonesian National Armed Forces, the National Police (Polri), or local government authorities regarding the claims made by TPNPB or the rejection expressed by residents. [*]