PUNCAK JAYA – The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) has issued a clarification regarding the incident of violence against civilians in the Puncak Jaya region, Central Papua. This statement comes in response to reports of three civilians suffering from gunshot wounds who were evacuated to Mulia Hospital on Wednesday morning (15/4/2026).
Chronology of Events
According to field information, three civilians—consisting of a woman and two children—were reported injured. Information regarding the victims' condition was first received following a report from Mr. Dianus Enumbi (a Tribal Chief in Tirineri Village) at approximately 08:00 WIT.
The victims were reportedly from the Sinak District and were found in a male Honai (traditional house) suffering from injuries. One of the victims has been identified as Gerson Telenggeng. The three victims were subsequently evacuated with the assistance of the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) to Mulia Hospital for further medical treatment.
TPNPB’s Firm Denial
Responding to the incident, TPNPB Spokesperson Sebby Sambom strictly stated that the TPNPB was not involved in the shooting. Sambom emphasized that the TPNPB functions as a protector for the Papuan people.
"That is not true. The TPNPB-OPM is the guard of the nation, the army protecting the people of the Papuan nation," Sambom stated.
Allegations of Unilateral Human Rights Violations
Furthermore, Sambom denied claims of any exchange of fire between the TPNPB and other parties at the scene. He instead alleged that arbitrary actions were carried out by police officers, which resulted in civilian casualties.
"There was no shootout there. It is clear that the police fired indiscriminately at the community and then claimed there was an exchange of fire. They blindly attacked civilians; that is a pure violation of human rights," he concluded.
Papua One Editorial