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Shooting on Christmas Eve in Dogiyai regency - Security forces alleged of opening fire at residents

Source
Human Rights Monitor - January 3, 2025

Indonesia, West Papua – On 24 December 2024, Mr Febrian Agapa, 20, was seriously injured after being shot at close range by the driver of a vehicle from a convoy escorted by security forces.

The incident occurred during a confrontation between residents and a convoy of vehicles passing through the area in Idakebo Village, Dogiyai Regency, Papua Tengah Province. Tensions escalated after initial shots were fired from the convoy, sparking outrage among the residents. A security force member reportedly fired directly at Mr Agapa's head, injuring his lower lip.

The incident unfolded around 5:00 pm, as a group of residents blocked the road connecting Moanemani with the regencies Paniai and Deiyai, prompting the convoy to stop. It is not clear why the men blocked the road, but all were reportedly intoxicated. Thereupon, several shots were released from inside the truck. Following the shots angry residents retaliated by throwing stones while the truck was passing through the location.

The situation further intensified when two more vehicles approached the location shortly after. Again, residents attempted to block the vehicles, but the driver responded by firing multiple shots. A grazing shot injured Mr Agapa's lower lip, causing severe injury. The security forces continued firing as they left the site of the incident, leaving Mr Agapa gravely wounded.

Mr Agapa and his relatives demand accountability and justice for the incident calling for an immediate investigation into the shooting and for the perpetrators to be prosecuted. Local communities and human rights organisations have urged the security forces to ensure restraint and prioritize dialogue.

Incidents of armed violence against civilians have significantly increased in the Dogiyai Regency in December 2024. Another shooting incident involving the Indonesian military (TNI) occurred in the Dogiyai Regency on 16 December 2024. Three civilians were reportedly injured during the incident.

Source: https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/shooting-on-christmas-eve-in-dogiyai-regency-security-forces-alleged-of-opening-fire-at-residents

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