Jayapura – Four refugees who were among thousands fleeing their village have reportedly died of illness.

The residents fled to Ilamburawi village in Yamo district, Puncak Jaya regency, on Jan. 16 following a security personnel manhunt for rebels who had earlier hoisted a separatist flag on Mount Kimibaga.

Many refugees were in a severe state due to food shortages and suffered from various illnesses such as malaria and hepatitis.

Head of the Papua GIDI synod Rev. Lipius Bilinuk told The Jakarta Post on Thursday thousands of residents had fled their homes fearing they would be caught in crossfire between troops and Free Papua Movement separatist rebels.

Lipius said residents were in a difficult position because they were in the middle of a fierce conflict. "They will be confronted by TNI troops if they move forward and face rebels if they retreat," he said.

Bilinuk urged the government to withdraw its troops from the jungles and the rebels to come out of hiding.