Angela Flassy, Jayapura – Religious leaders in Papua have asked for more time to negotiate with a group of armed people who have been occupying Kapeso Airstrip in the newly established Mamberamo Raya regency, Papua.

Dora Balubun, a priest at the Injili Christian Church (GKI) Synod in Tanah Papua, said synod secretary, priest Albert Yoku, was still negotiating with the armed group who are allegedly led by Cosmos Makabori, Deky Imbiri and Nela Yansenem.

"The last time he informed us, he said the negotiations were difficult. But, he said he would be able to end them as soon as possible," said Balubun. "The GKI hopes the whole (negotiation) process will end peacefully today," she said.

Balubun also said that although the Papuan Police had officially declared that the group belonged to the separatist Free Papua Organization (OPM), her church believed they were part of a Papuan sect called Mandar Makeri.

The sect, according to Balubun, believes the Messiah will arrive only when the people fight against the government.

"We expect the police to be patient because the negotiations are still in process," Balubun said.

Papua Police chief Insp. Gen. F.X. Bagus Ekodanto said Monday that a deadline for the peaceful process involving the Kapeso Airstrip occupation was Friday this week. Otherwise, he said, the police would take other measures.

"We're still waiting for negotiations with a third party. If no solution is reached soon, we will take action," said Ekodanto, adding that disappointment with the government could be the reason for the occupation.

An armed group has occupied Kapeso Airstrip since May. Apart from blocking off the airstrip, the occupation has also prevented local residents from leaving the region.