Hundreds of Maybarat Residents protested calling justice for shooting of three civilians

MAYBRAT, WEST PAPUA — Around 300 people joined a "Pro-Democracy and Human Rights Action" in Maybrat (southwest of West Papua; around 700 km from capital Jayapura) on 18 August, demanding accountability for the shooting of three civilians in Ainot Village, Aifat District.

Protesters and witnesses attributed the shootings to Indonesian military (TNI) personnel and rejected official claims that the victims were shot by unidentified persons (OTK).

Protesters gathered and delivered speeches at the military command, police station, Maybrat Regency Parliament (DPRK), and Regent’s Office. At the DPRK, protesters submitted their demands and called for an investigation. DPRK leadership stated that it would follow up on the demands and that a special committee had been established to investigate the incident.

At the Regent’s Office, protesters demanded the withdrawal of military forces from Maybrat and called on the Governor of Southwest Papua and other authorities to address the shootings. Women protesters also spoke about the grief and fear experienced by Maybrat communities.

When no substantive response was provided, protesters decided to remain at the Regent’s Office overnight while awaiting a response from the Governor.

“The people of Maybrat are demanding what every community has the right to demand: truth, accountability and protection from violence,” said the Merdeka West Papua Support Network.

“Allegations of civilian killings involving security forces are not new, not isolated, and have become the norm on the island. This cannot be dismissed or covered up. This cannot be another number and data. They must be investigated independently and transparently.”

Among the key demands of the residents, that Merdeka West Papua Support Network requests for our global monitoring, attention, and support are:

• An independent and credible investigation into the shooting of the three civilians.

• Accountability for those responsible, including any security personnel found to have committed violations.

• An end to the militarisation of civilian communities and the withdrawal of military forces from Maybrat.

• Protection of civilians and respect for human rights in Maybrat and across West Papua.

The Merdeka West Papua Support Network stands with the people of Maybrat in their call for justice, dignity, accountability and an end to violence against civilians.# Merdeka West Papua Support Network merdeka.sec@gmail.com

@merdeka.wp