KOBAKMA — The graduation celebration of High School (SMA) students in Kobakma City, Central Mamberamo Regency, ended in bloodshed after police officers carried out armed repressive actions on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The parade, which was originally intended as an expression of joy by students over their study results, turned into a humanitarian tragedy when the authorities' live ammunition wounded a number of students and civilians.
Based on reports gathered directly by the Human Rights Defender (HRD) on the ground, the tension began when the parade group was forcibly stopped by security forces because it was suspected that there were Morning Star flag symbols carried by participants. However, the authorities' response was deemed to have exceeded limits by conducting shootings targeting the bodies of the students. "The use of armed force against school children who are celebrating graduation is an extremely disproportionate action and violates the basic principles of human rights protection," emphasized a humanitarian activist based on data gathered by the HRD.
Until now, Lukas Enembe Hospital reports that it is treating several gunshot wound victims whose data has been verified by the Human Rights Defender, including Sago Pugumis (17), Wajus Pagawak (24), Enius Wanimbo (22), Nita Sibak (20), and Yali Elabi (18), who is reportedly in critical condition due to a gunshot wound to the right thigh. In addition to the students, civilians such as Abi Yikawa and Nius Wandikbo were also reported to be victims in the incident that occurred around the Market and the Arege Police Post. Humanitarian activists urged medical teams to provide maximum care for the victims, who on average suffered serious injuries.
On the other hand, the chaos that broke out after the shooting also resulted in a police officer reportedly suffering serious injuries to the point of unconsciousness. The security situation in Kobakma is currently reported to be on alert, while the Vice Regent of Central Mamberamo is scheduled to hold an emergency meeting at the Kobakma Police Station to find a conducive resolution and prevent a wider escalation of conflict between the community and security forces.
A humanitarian activist referring to the HRD report stated that this incident must be fully investigated through an independent, transparent, and accountable investigation. "We cannot allow armed violence to be the answer to civilian student actions; the state must be responsible for the casualties on this land and ensure justice for the students who are now lying in the hospital," the activist said, concluding their statement.
The pressure to stop the use of excessive force in handling civilian masses now continues to strengthen to ensure the safety of residents in Highland Papua. ***