An Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldier shot inside an armored vehicle while on patrol in Intan Jaya (Photo Courtesy)
Intan Jaya, Central Papua — Tensions in Papua have reached new heights as the West Papua National Liberation Army (WPNLA/TPNPB) issued two simultaneous press releases, showcasing the guerrilla forces determination and courage in the face of mounting pressure from the Indonesian military.
With a sense of responsibility, TPNPB’s Kodap VIII in Intan Jaya and the Command of TPNPB’s Defense Territory XI Odiyai Dogiyai confirmed their involvement in a series of attacks targeting Indonesian military personnel in the volatile regions of Papua.
On Monday, April 14, 2025, forces led by Major Aibon Kogoya of Kodap VIII Intan Jaya confirmed an attack on Indonesian military personnel conducting a patrol with military vehicles in Titigi, Intan Jaya Regency.
The assault was carried out with precision sniper fire, resulting in a severe injury to an Indonesian soldier from Yonif 500, who was struck in the abdomen by a bullet that penetrated the tactical vehicle they were in.
The sniper’s position was well-hidden, making the attack highly effective despite the challenging terrain.
Responsive Action from WPNLA/TPNPB Forces
Major Kogoya, the commander of Battalion D in the region, emphasized that the attack served as a warning to Indonesian military forces to cease their operations in Intan Jaya immediately. He also made it clear that military posts such as Titigi Post, Mamba Post, and even the Regent’s office were potential targets for TPNPB’s snipers if Indonesian troops continued their assaults.
Kogoya further called on the Indonesian military to adhere to international humanitarian law governing the rules of war, including halting the use of advanced airstrike drones, helicopters, and bombers which have frequently targeted civilian settlements.
“We want to remind them that the use of weapons should be balanced in this conflict. Don’t allow civilians to become victims. This is part of our warning to the Indonesian military,” Major Kogoya stated in a press release received by Sebby Sambom, TPNPB’s spokesperson.
As the situation intensifies, TPNPB forces stationed in Intan Jaya have heightened their vigilance, with snipers in position at various key locations across the battlefield to ensure that Indonesian military actions will not go unchallenged. They also reiterated the importance of respecting civilian rights and minimizing damage to residential areas.
Indonesian Intelligence Officer Executed in Dogiyai
Not only in Intan Jaya, but in another press release, the WPNLA/TPNPB Command of Defense Territory XI Odiyai Dogiyai, led by Brigadier General Yonatan Makime Pigai, reported a significant development.
On the same day, TPNPB forces successfully executed Lailo, a known Indonesian military intelligence chief in Dogiyai. Lailo, who also served as the head of the Nusantara Association, a group of Indonesian migrants, was targeted after it was revealed that he had been recruiting members to spy on TPNPB operations in the region.
After killing Lailo, TPNPB forces seized his pistol and set fire to his vehicle. The killing of Lailo escalated tensions in Dogiyai, with reports from TPNPB indicating that Indonesian military forces had sent additional troops, including military trucks and patrol vehicles filled with armed soldiers.
However, TPNPB remains undeterred by the influx of reinforcements. In the report, Yonatan Pigai sternly stated that the Indonesian military must cease indiscriminate shooting and attacks on civilians.
This underscores that TPNPB’s actions are not solely focused on combating Indonesian forces but also on protecting the civilian population of Papua, which has often borne the brunt of the ongoing conflict.
“We call for an end to the reckless shooting at civilians. We are ready to fight, but we also respect the laws of war,” Yonatan Pigai declared.
Rising Tensions
These incidents reported by the National Command of WPNLA/TPNPB highlight the extraordinary bravery of their forces as they face an Indonesian military with far superior capabilities.
But beyond the physical battles, these events reflect the growing political tensions in West Papua. Every attack by TPNPB is accompanied by a call for the Indonesian military to reconsider its approach.
This rising tension has broader implications for both security and humanitarian concerns. The growing number of civilian casualties due to Indonesian airstrikes targeting civilian areas exacerbates the urgency of a peaceful resolution.
Many now advocate for ending the conflict through peaceful means, urging constructive political dialogue. Meanwhile, TPNPB, which is becoming more organized and disciplined, remains committed to its cause — the independence of West Papua.
Despite the ongoing attacks, what stands out most is the resolute courage demonstrated by TPNPB forces in defending their homeland. They fight not just with weapons but with the principle that the rights of the Papuan people to self-determination must be honored and fought for, even if it means paying the ultimate price.
TPNPB Supreme Commander, General Goliath Tabuni, declared that this struggle will not end after one or two attacks. This war, which has been ongoing for over five decades, according to Tabuni, a never-ending fight for freedom.
“We will continue to fight until Papua is free. What we are doing today is part of a long journey toward the freedom we believe is our right,” General Goliath Tabuni stated in an official message directed to the people of Papua and the international community. (Julian Haganah Howay)
