Indonesia Rights Body Probes Alleged Killing of 12 Civilians in Papua Military Operation

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Jakarta: The National Human Rights Commission of Indonesia (Komnas HAM) has launched an investigation into reports that at least 12 civilians were killed during a military operation in Papua, raising fresh concerns over civilian safety in the long-running conflict.

The alleged incident took place on April 14 in Kembru village, Puncak Regency, in Central Papua, during operations by the Indonesian military (TNI) targeting the armed separatist group TPNPB-OPM.

Reports suggest that women and children were among those killed, while several others were seriously injured. The operation reportedly followed earlier airstrikes in nearby areas that caused civilians to flee into Kembru, which had been considered a temporary safe zone.

Komnas HAM said it is working with multiple parties to verify the details, noting that access to the area remains restricted due to ongoing security operations.

Commission chair Anis Hidayah said any military action resulting in civilian deaths cannot be justified and called for a full investigation into the operation.

The commission also urged authorities to ensure accountability, provide humanitarian assistance to affected residents, and protect displaced civilians, including access to medical and psychological support.

It further appealed to both security forces and separatist fighters to avoid targeting civilians and to respect international humanitarian law.

The Indonesian military has not yet publicly responded to the allegations, and independent verification remains difficult due to limited access to the affected region.