NABIRE, TOMEI.ID | The National Command of the West Papua National Liberation Army’s military wing of the Free Papua Organization (TPNPB-OPM) has openly rejected what they call “military-style development” in Intan Jaya, Central Papua.
This stance was conveyed through a press release from Kodap VIII, which was issued and received by the tomei.id editorial team on Tuesday (2/12/2025).
The Commander of Kodap VIII Intan Jaya, Colonel Apeni Kobogau, accused authorities of mobilizing personnel to open access to the Wabu Block gold mining area. Kobogau emphasized that his faction rejects all development agendas carried out in tandem with military operations and declared their readiness to thwart any activities deemed threatening to indigenous territories and the safety of local residents.
In the report, Kobogau stated that TPNPB Kodap VIII’s struggle remains focused on efforts to “regain Papua’s independence,” referring to the commemoration of the 64th Anniversary of the Independence of the Papua Nation on December 1, 2025, which they base on the political declaration of December 1, 1961.
Major Agus Kogoya reported that the raising of the Morning Star flag and a press conference were held from their headquarters as part of the December 1 commemoration. Agus Kogoya urged the local government to halt the establishment of military posts in settlements and to stop activities they described as the exploitation of natural resources in the Wabu Block.
From the Central Headquarters, TPNPB claimed that government military operations have resulted in civilian casualties. The organization called on President Prabowo Subianto, TNI Commander Agus Subianto, and Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin to stop using fighter jets, helicopters, and armed drones in populated areas.
TPNPB emphasized that if operations continue, they request that combat should not take place in residential areas but rather in locations deemed appropriate for armed engagement.
The press release was signed by TPNPB-OPM Spokesperson Sebby Sambom along with the leadership: General Goliat Tabuni, Lieutenant General Melkisedek Awom, Major General Terianus Satto, and Major General Lekagak Telenggen. [*]
