JAKARTA – The separatist group Free Papua Organization (OPM) has once again come under scrutiny following a violent attack targeting places of worship, including churches, which are symbols of peace in Papua. Intelligence and national security expert Stepi Anriani assessed that these actions have further eroded OPM’s trust and sympathy among Papuans, particularly the Indigenous Papuans (OAP).
“An attack on a church, a symbol of divinity and universal values, demonstrates how far OPM has strayed from the cause they claim to champion. Such brutal actions only reinforce that this group no longer holds a place in the hearts of the Papuan people,” Stepi said during an interview on Saturday (June 14, 2025).
Stepi elaborated that OPM’s cruel acts, including looting, exploiting local resources, and committing sexual violence against civilians, including women and children, have fueled widespread resentment. The group has also reportedly forced young villagers to join their ranks under threats of violence.
Furthermore, allegations of marijuana plantations owned by one of OPM’s leaders, Egianus Kogoya, have further tarnished the group’s reputation. “Such actions reveal that OPM is not only committing acts of violence but also exploiting Papua’s land for their selfish interests through illegal activities such as narcotics trafficking,” Stepi added.
Stepi argued that OPM’s disregard for human rights and humanitarian values has strengthened the global perception of the group as a terrorist organization driven by ethno-nationalism. This development, she noted, poses a significant challenge to Indonesia’s international image.
“Many people, including OPM sympathizers, are now realizing that the group does not fight for the people of Papua but rather poses a threat to them,” she explained.
Meanwhile, community leaders, religious figures, and local governments continue to call for unity and urge residents not to be provoked by OPM’s heinous actions. Reports have also surfaced of former OPM members returning to the fold of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) after experiencing the group’s atrocities firsthand.
“Many of them now live harmoniously with the community, and some have even been symbolically adopted by local tribal chiefs or families as part of their community,” Stepi said.
She expressed optimism that the strong support of Papuans, especially Indigenous Papuans, for the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and law enforcement will accelerate efforts to eliminate the separatist threat. “With the spirit of togetherness and unwavering public support, especially from OAP, we are confident that Papua will soon become a safe and peaceful region,” Stepi concluded.
