INTAN JAYA - A total of nine military and civilian helicopter units were deployed to conduct air operations from Sugapa District to Ugimba District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua. The deployment of the air fleet took place intensively from 05.00 local time until the afternoon.

​The air operation occurred simultaneously with the drop of troops and logistics by the Indonesian military in the courtyard of Wanibugi Church. Due to this activity, civilians in the surrounding villages were unable to carry out Sunday worship peacefully.

​Flight activity reaching dozens of entries and exits into the area created a tense atmosphere among the community. TPNPB stated that the presence of this air fleet had a direct impact on the comfort of residents who were worshiping.

​In addition to air operations, the Indonesian military also launched land operations on foot from Sugapa to Ugimba District. The land journey took a full day and caused most military personnel to remain in the forests while establishing several new camps.

​TPNPB reported that the presence of military posts located near residents' settlements triggered specific concerns for the safety of the local community. The situation in the field is currently under close monitoring from the Intan Jaya VIII Defense Regional Command.

​TPNPB appealed to the Indonesian military to stop all forms of shooting and arrests of civilians throughout Ugimba District.

​TPNPB also urged that Indonesian military posts standing in the middle of residents' settlements be dismantled immediately in order to avoid prolonged adverse impacts for civilians.

​"We ask that the Indonesian military immediately dismantle posts located in resident settlements and not carry out repressive actions," said Sebby Sambom, Spokesperson for the TPNPB central headquarters management, Monday (8/3/2026).

​TPNPB even emphasized that the safety of civilians in villages must be a top priority that must be respected by all parties involved in the armed conflict in the region.

​(One Papua)