Victor Mambor, Jayapura – Two children were reportedly shot during a crossfire between the Indonesian Military (TNI) and the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) in Sugapa, Intan Jaya. The victims are Nopelinus Sondegau, a 2-year-old toddler and Yoakim Mazau, 6 years old. Sondegau died from the gunshot wound.

A resident reported that the gunfight that injured and killed the children occurred in Mamba Village on Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021 at 9 p.m. local time. Sondegau and Mazau were in their home when they got shot.

Both victims were taken to the Sugapa Health Center for medical treatment but because there was no health worker at the health center, the children were taken home by their families.

Lawmaker of Intan Jaya Regional People's Representative Council Marthinus Maisini confirmed the shooting that killed one of two Sugapa children. "Yesterday, gunfire lasted until the afternoon. Two children fell victims, Nopelinus Sondegau and Yoakim Mazau. Nopelius died this morning," Maisini said, as quoted by suarapapua.com on Wednesday.

The Intan Jaya Police Chief has yet to answer Jubi's request for comment.

Meanwhile, a soldier named Sergeant Asep was also reportedly injured in the crossfire between the TNI and TPNPB on Tuesday.

"It is true, there was an injured soldier in a crossfire in Mamba village," said 173/PVB Military Resort commander Brig. Gen. Taufan Gestoro, as quoted by Antara.

Gestoro said Asep was currently receiving treatment and in a stable condition. Taufan, however, did not explain the chronology of the shooting incident.

Source: https://en.jubi.co.id/two-toddlers-shot-in-a-crossfire-between-tni-and-tpnpb-one-dies