Dekai, Yahukimo — October 15, 2025 — Senator from Papua Pegunungan, Sopater Sam, ST, strongly condemned the brutal killing of a teacher, Melanie Wamea, in Holuwon District, Yahukimo Regency.
“I strongly condemn this criminal act that claimed the life of an educator serving in one of the most remote areas of Papua Pegunungan,” Senator Sopater told reporters on Wednesday (Oct 15, 2025).
The senator expressed his deep condolences over the tragic death of the late teacher and urged law enforcement to promptly arrest and prosecute the perpetrator with the harshest possible punishment.
“As a representative of the region in the national parliament, I extend my deepest sympathy over the passing of the late Ms. Melanie Wamea. I urge the authorities to immediately arrest and bring the perpetrator to justice,” he emphasized.
According to Senator Sopater, the loss of a dedicated educator like the late Wamea is a major setback for education in Papua’s remote areas, given her long-standing commitment to teaching in difficult and isolated regions.
“We have lost a teacher who devoted her life to nurturing Papua’s young generation. Few are willing to serve in such remote places like Holuwon, but she remained steadfast in her noble mission,” he stated.
He added that the late Wamea’s more than ten years of service in Papua’s interior represents an extraordinary example of dedication and loyalty that deserves high appreciation.
“This is a remarkable example of commitment to educating the children of Papua,” he said.
Furthermore, Senator Sopater revealed that, based on information received, the suspect’s identity has been identified by the investigation team. He urged the authorities to act swiftly to arrest the perpetrator and uncover the motive behind the murder.
“We urge the authorities to move quickly since the suspect’s identity is already known. The perpetrator must face the full force of the law,” he asserted.
Senator Sopater reaffirmed that acts of violence against educators are barbaric and inhumane, and must not be tolerated in Papua.
