YAHUKIMO - The Law and Human Rights Department of the Evangelical Church in Indonesia (GIDI) expressed deep concern over the situation faced by civilians in the Korowai region, Yahukimo Regency, following TNI military operations through air and land routes.
This action has caused the civilian population to be scattered and flee into the forest to save themselves, where some residents are still being searched for and others are being gathered by tribal chiefs, churches, and humanitarian activists.
Conditions on the ground show very high vulnerability, especially for community groups requiring special attention. Initial reports note the presence of nine pregnant women as well as children aged 5, 9, 12, and 15 years from the regions of Boven Digoel, Pegunungan Bintang, Yahukimo, Asmat, and Mappi.
Residents are reported to be suffering from hunger, illness, and a lack of access to healthcare, which has resulted in three people dying in displacement, with one body having been evacuated to Boven Digoel. This information is still being verified through church networks and local leaders on the ground.
Responding to the humanitarian crisis in the Korowai, Dekai, Kota Jalan Gunung, Suru-Suru, and surrounding areas, the Law and Human Rights Department of GIDI urges the Indonesian government to immediately stop military operations.
"Especially in residential areas and zones that potentially endanger civilians," said the Head of the Law and Human Rights Department of GIDI, Rev. Jimmy Koirewoa, S.Th.
He added that the Yahukimo Regency Government, through relevant agencies, must immediately intervene to see and directly address the condition of affected civilians.
In addition, Rev. Jimmy Koirewoa, S.Th. also emphasized the importance of independent party involvement in handling this situation. "Asking the state to immediately open independent humanitarian access so that aid for food, medicines, healthcare services, shelter, and other basic needs can reach affected communities," he stated.
He also asked Komnas HAM and independent institutions to lead the search for residents in the forest together with tribal chiefs and the church, while reminding all parties involved in the conflict to respect International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights law for the protection of civilians. (One Papua)