Members of the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) have been accused of intimidating journalists while covering activities in Jalan Bubara, Klaligi Village, Sorong City, on 9 July 2024.
Amnesty International Indonesia, represented by Executive Director Usman Hamid, condemned these actions as violations of human rights and press freedom guaranteed by Indonesian law. Hamid stressed that such intimidation is a serious breach of Law No. 40/1999 on the Press, which ensures journalists' legal protection and right to seek and disseminate information.
A group of journalists was covering the death of a Navy member at Lantamal XIV/Sorong headquarters when they were approached and threatened by Navy personnel. The intimidation involved verbal threats and attempts to obstruct the media coverage. The Papuan human rights NGO LP3BH Manokwari highlighted the inappropriate conduct of the Navy officers, as the journalists were performing their duties following the Press Law.
The incident in Sorong underscores the challenging environment for journalists working in West Papua. The region has a history of conflict and human rights abuses, making press freedom even more critical.
Repressive actions by security force members endanger journalists and deprive the public of their right to accurate and objective information. The responses from Amnesty International and LP3BH Manokwari call for strict action against the perpetrators. This incident highlights the need for robust protections for journalists to ensure a working environment free of violence or intimidation.