Ans K, Merauke – Merauke Regional Police arrested four residents who were referred to as sympathizers of the West Papua National Committee (KNPB). They were accused of vandalism for painting the Morning Star symbol on walls and fences in a number of locations in the City of Merauke.

"The four were secured around 12.00 (Papua Time). Now, they are still undergoing an examination (interrogated), "said Head of the Merauke Regional Police Unit Iptu Budi Santoso, Monday (12/02/2019).

Budi made sure the four residents were not arrested. They were released immediately after completing the examination.

"They are not held by us, but only information is taken, related to the action of" doodling "walls and fences with paintings (symbols) of the Morning Star. After they are examined, they will be sent home, "explained Budi.

He said besides arresting the alleged perpetrators, the police seized a number of attributes associated with West Papua's pro-independence activities. These attributes are in the form of Morning Star symbols and writing referendum demands for the people of West Papua.

The police are still intensifying security activities in Merauke, after the peak of the December 1 Warning. Joint patrols with the TNI will continue to be held for the next few days.

"This morning, we were still operating (patrolling) at a number of points (locations). (The route) from Kelapa Lima, Yobar, Spadem to a number of locations, "said Head of Public Relations Subdivision of the Merauke Regional Police AKP Suhardi (*)

Source: https://www.jubi.co.id/polisi-tangkap-simpatisan-knpb-di-merauke