Antara and Halida Bunga Fisandra, Jakarta – There are at least a total of 9,078 people taking refuge from Wamena. A number of refugees are staying at the Papare Military (TNI) Base, with some set to board the Indonesian Air Force's Hercules aircraft destined for regions outside of Wamena this Friday, October 4.

This follows the riots across Wamena that broke out on September 23 due to a hoax.

"The Air Force main headquarters is currently mobilizing three aircraft," said Silas Papare TNI Air Force Base Commander, First Marshal Triwibowo today.

Each of three aircraft bears different missions, with one focusing on logistical aids and the other two from Jayapura and Wamena on accommodating refugees to their hometowns outside of Papua.

According to Triwibowo, the refugees are accommodated at local Papuan military installations and religious houses of prayers that are spread until the city of Jayapura, which is located around 40 kilometers from Sentani.

Following the deadly riots and killings committed by armed criminal groups, people have opted to take refuge outside of Wamena but remain in Papua.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1255784/9000-people-take-refuge-following-wamena-riots