Mimika – A youth leader from the Kamoro Tribe, Mr. Edison Manikiuta, expressed his full appreciation and support for the performance of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in the rescue and evacuation operation of victims of violence committed by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) against gold panners in Yahukimo Regency, Papua.
This statement was delivered directly by Edison during an event held at his residence on Nawaripi Street, Mimika Regency, on Saturday (April 19) at 2:00 PM WIT.
“As intellectuals, youth leaders, religious leaders, and traditional leaders of the Kamoro Tribe, we express our highest respect and deepest gratitude to the TNI and Polri personnel who have worked tirelessly to evacuate the victims—both those who lost their lives and those who survived—from the scene of the incident to the hospital, and then handed them over to their respective families,” said Edison.
He emphasized that the brutal acts carried out by the KKB cannot be justified from either a humanitarian or religious standpoint. Edison strongly condemned the killings, calling them severe violations of human rights.
“The actions of our brothers in the KKB, who killed gold panners—people who were simply trying to earn a living to support their families—are inhumane. These individuals were working hard for their children’s education, for families struggling to make ends meet. Yet they were treated cruelly. Our conscience cannot accept such actions,” he firmly stated.
Furthermore, Edison urged all people in Papua to live peacefully without violence and called on all parties to uphold religious and humanitarian values.
“No religion justifies murder, especially against innocent people. Religion forbids slander and violence. Therefore, we encourage all parties to unite, reject acts of terror, and preserve Papua as a land of peace,” he added.
Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2025 has received widespread support from traditional leaders and civil society across Papua. This initiative plays a vital role in maintaining stability and security while protecting civilians from threats posed by armed groups.
