JAKARTA – Lieutenant General TNI Richard Tampubolon, Commander of the Joint Defense Region III Command (Pangkogabwilhan), gave an ultimatum to the Papuan Armed Criminal Group (KKB), which is becoming more brutal and barbaric day by day.
“The KKB’s track record of crimes and inhumane barbarity is clearly illustrated,” said Richard in his statement on Sunday (31/3/2024).
“Starting from massacres of Papuan Indigenous People (OAP) and innocent migrant communities, to attacks on officers tasked with helping the community,” he added.
According to the Kopassus General, the KKB continues to harass and attack security forces tasked with protecting Papua in order to support the acceleration of welfare development for the progress of Papua and West Papua in accordance with Presidential Instruction No. 9 of 2020.
“In fact, the KKB cruelly held Susi Air Philips pilot Mark Marthens, a New Zealand citizen, hostage for more than a year,” he said.
With the KKB’s behavior so far, the situation in Papua has become unconducive and has greatly hampered the development process for the progress of the region. Therefore, Richard firmly issued three appeals to the Papuan KKB.
“First, immediately release Philips Pilot Mark Marthens, because the pilot’s captivity is seriously hampering transportation for the OAP community, including logistics supplies, especially in isolated districts,” he said.
Second, he asked for the massacre of innocent civilians to stop, as well as the use of women and children as supporters of KKB operations.
“KKB has also targeted educators, health workers and all workers who contribute to building community welfare in remote, disadvantaged and isolated areas,” he said.
The former Pattimura Military Commander also asked the KKB to stop attacks on officers tasked with maintaining security in Papua in order to support the acceleration of development for the progress and welfare of the Papuan people.
“I reiterate that the KKB should heed what I have said, for the sake of realizing Papua as a peaceful, beautiful and advanced paradise on earth,” he said.
Editor : Jo
