Jayapura, Irian Jaya – Twelve members of a security disturbance group (GPK) along with 10 adults and 11 children who had been hiding near the Irian Jaya-Papua New Guinea borders have surrendered to the military in Opkim village, Merauke district.

Information chief of the Trikora military command, Lt Col Maulud Hidayat, said Thursday that the GPK members, led by Martinus Okayanum, decided to surrender after learning that 72 other GPK members who have earlier surrendered are being treated well by the military and are being assisted by the local administration in leading a new life.

The 72 GPK members led by Willem Onde surrendered on May 25 to security authorities in Mindiptana village, 20 minutes away by air from Opkim village.

They handed over 46 rifles of various types.

Hidayat said GPK members and Irianese living in the neighboring country have sent feelers that they want to return to their hometowns after the military launched the so-called "arms-free" territorial operation. The operation has proven to be effective in attracting GPK members, he added.