On 28 February 2024, around 10:30 pm, members of the Indonesian National Army (TNI) command Yonif 330 reportedly shot down the two indigenous Papuans, Selli Maiseni, 17, and Mr Mikalon Yoani, 26, in Titigi Village
The incident occurred during the vote count for the Indonesian Legislative and Presidential elections. The circumstances of the shooting are currently being investigated. Human rights observers in Intan Jaya call for immediate action, demanding the withdrawal of all TNI Yonif 330 members operating there.
The case highlights a disturbing pattern of violence perpetrated by the TNI in Intan Jaya, citing many instances of shootings resulting in extrajudicial killings or injuries among civilians, including school children. The armed conflict in West Papua is a driver of internal displacement and prompted not only the indigenous population. but also teachers and health workers to leave the conflict areas.
Accordingly, military members have become more involved in providing fundamental government health services, teaching in schools, and engaging in public activities such as burials and joint garden work. This is also part of the new Government strategy to tackle the armed conflict in West Papua with 'Smart Power,' a combination of soft and hard approaches.
Many indigenous Papuans are traumatized by the presence of the military in their communities. Many are concerned that this exposes the community to increased potential risk of armed attacks by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) near indigenous settlements and human rights violations.