Jakarta – The recent burning of state elementary (SDN) and junior high schools (SMPN) in Okbab Village, Pegunungan Bintang, Papua by an Armed Criminal Group (KKB) has drawn strong condemnation from Major General (Ret.) Sturman Panjaitan, a member of the Indonesian Parliament’s Commission I from the PDI Perjuangan faction.
Panjaitan expressed deep concern over the indiscriminate actions of the KKB, which he believes disregard the safety and interests of the local Papuan community.
“I am deeply saddened and mourn the escalation of these KKB actions. What fault lies with these schools that they should be set ablaze? The burning of SDN Okbab by KKB is an attempt to destroy the future of Papua’s youth. The Indonesian Military and the Operation Peace Cartenz Task Force must swiftly apprehend those responsible,” stated Major General (Ret.) Sturman Panjaitan in Jakarta on Wednesday (17/7/2024).
He further revealed that over the past three years, KKB attacks have targeted and burned down 19 schools in Papua. Prior to the recent incident at SDN and SMPN Okbab on 13 July 2024, KKB had also burned down an elementary school in Pogapa, Homeyo District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, on 1 May 2024.
“The KKB’s terror tactics are now clearly targeting schools. Therefore, I urge enhanced patrols by the Operation Peace Cartenz Task Force around schools and public facilities,” he continued.
Discussing security in Papua, Major General (Ret.) Sturman Panjaitan emphasized the need not only for increased patrols but also for a comprehensive and collective approach involving military and civilian sectors to address these recent acts of terror by the KKB.
“It is imperative that we resolve this issue comprehensively and collectively, involving all stakeholders, including civilians. Our children in Papua should not be denied their right to education due to the actions of the KKB. We must not allow ourselves to be defeated by them,” he concluded.
Reportedly, KKB’s recent attack on SDN Okbab resulted in no casualties. However, the severe damage inflicted has disrupted educational activities and caused distress among the local community.
