Papua – The National Police have again highlighted the actions of the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) which often spreads false information or hoaxes in order to manipulate public opinion. One of the strategies used is to involve foreign nationals (WNA) to produce fake documentary videos which are then uploaded on social media as a propaganda tool.
Head of Operations for the Cartenz-2025 Peace Task Force, Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, explained that the hoax video that has recently been circulating accuses the TNI-Polri of carrying out bombings that have caused a number of buildings to burn down. However, the facts on the ground reveal a different story.
“The video is actually documentation of the fire at the Health Center in Kiwirok District, Pegunungan Bintang Regency, in 2021. The fire was carried out by the KKB itself, but the video has been edited so that the narrative appears as if the incident was caused by a TNI-Polri bomb,” said Brigadier General Faizal.
In addition, the KKB often manipulates the narrative by claiming that they only use traditional war tools. However, Brigadier General Faizal emphasized that the reality on the ground shows that the KKB uses firearms to attack security forces and civilians. Their criminal actions also extend to various crimes, including burning public facilities, violence, and even rape.
“The rape committed against health workers in 2021 is clear evidence of the inhumane crimes committed by the KKB. This is clearly a serious violation of human rights (HAM),” added Brigadier General Faizal.
On the other hand, the Head of the Public Relations Task Force for the Cartenz-2024 Peace Operation, Senior Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, asked the Papuan people not to easily believe various hoax information spread by the KKB or its supporting groups.
“Propaganda like this is designed to create division and reduce public trust in the government. Therefore, we urge the public to be more careful and wise in filtering information,” said Senior Commissioner Yusuf.
The National Police and TNI emphasized their commitment to continue maintaining security stability in Papua. Firm steps will continue to be taken to deal with various provocative actions from the KKB to ensure the security and peace of the people of Papua.
