Banjir Ambarita, Jayapura, Papua – The situation in the highland district of Puncak Papua remained tense on Monday as a housing complex for local teachers was burned down in the continuing tribal war that has killed at least 27 people since late July.

No one was injured in the Monday's inferno because the occupants had left the complex. By the time the police's Mobile Brigade (Brimob) arrived at the scene, the fire had completely destroyed the building and the arsonists had left the scene.

The provincial and district governments are struggling to find a peaceful settlement to put an end to the war, which was triggered by dispute in the district election involving candidates from the Great Indonesian Movement Party (Gerindra).

The party issued recommendation letters for Elvis Tabuni, the speaker of the Puncak Papua legislative council, and Simon Alom, who led the transitional process during the establishment of the new district.

Both sides claimed they had backing from Gerindra and had registered their nomination with the local election committee. Simon's bid enraged Elvis, who had registered four days earlier.

Supporters of the rival camps clashed at the end of July. Four people from Simon's side were killed on July 30, and the following day Simon's supporters retaliated, resulting in the death of 13 people from Elvis's camp. More violence has broken out sporadically since then, resulting in more casualties.

The fights have paralyzed the district, and schools have closed since some students have been involved in the conflicts.

On Monday, many local residents – including children – were seen carrying spears, machetes and arrows on the quiet streets. Many schools were completely abandoned.

Yokim, a student of Ilaga Elementary School, said he had not attended class because of the prolonged fighting. "Me and my friends haven't gone to school for two months. Sometimes, we join our parents for the war," he said.

Usai Alom, head of the education office in Puncak district, said all school activities were suspended and it could take years before a settlement was reached. "According to the local customs, tribal war can last many years, even if they come to a truce," he said. The conflicts affected 18 schools and hundreds of their pupils, he said.

The National Police have added another platoon to the number of personnel on the ground, but despite government claims that the situation is under control, the bloody conflicts continue and more buildings and vehicles have been set on fire.