1) Indonesia's election to the UN Human Rights Council was not due to human rights progress

2) Jakarta Post Indonesia assumes UN Human Rights Council presidency amid domestic criticism 10th january

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1) Indonesia's election to the UN Human Rights Council was not due to human rights progress

January 10, 2026 in Press Release Reading Time: 3 mins read

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Author: Jubi Admin - Editor: Arjuna Pademme

Jayapura, Jubi – Amnesty International Indonesia stated that Indonesia's election as President of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) was not due to human rights progress at home or abroad.

Amnesty International Indonesia's Executive Director, Usman Hamid, said the Minister of Human Rights' boast that Indonesia "succeeded in winning" the position of President of the UNHRC because of the "Ministry of Human Rights" was a false boast that was not based on the facts.

He said the position rotates according to region around the world. This year it is the Asia Pacific region's turn. Coincidentally, Indonesia is the sole candidate for this rotating position.

"So it's not accurate to say that Indonesia achieved this position because it 'seized' it, let alone because of the Ministry of Human Rights. It's also not accurate to say that this position was achieved because of progress on human rights at home or abroad," said Usman Hamid in a written press release on Friday evening (January 9, 2026).

According to Usman, Indonesia's domestic human rights reputation has actually worsened. In 2025, more than 5,000 people were arrested for demonstrations, and 283 human rights defenders were attacked.

Ironically, the Ministry of Human Rights tends to justify human rights violations. Most recently, the Minister of Human Rights even praised the drafters of the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), which clearly threatens human rights.

Indonesia's international human rights reputation is weak. Indonesia tends to reject recommendations from the Human Rights Council to improve the human rights situation. "In 2022, for example, Indonesia rejected 59 of the 269 recommendations in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR)," he said.

He said these two situations create an irony: as President of the Human Rights Council, Indonesia will lead the review of member states' human rights in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), especially since Indonesia will also be the object of the UPR review.

Furthermore, Usman continued, Indonesia's UPR reports often differ from reality. In 2022, Indonesia only reported on Papua from the perspective of infrastructure and welfare, without mentioning the ongoing violence against civilians there.

Indonesia has shown little commitment to human rights and often advocates for permissive approaches such as dialogue or consensus with countries suspected of human rights violations.

He cited an example in 2022, after a report by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights concluded that human rights violations in Xinjiang, China, potentially constituted crimes against humanity.

At that time, Indonesia rejected a motion to discuss the report, arguing that it would "not yield meaningful progress" because the proposal "did not receive the consent and support of the countries concerned."

“This rejection contributed to the failure of the motion by a narrow margin, 19 votes against to 17 in favor, and 11 abstentions. "Indonesia also has a poor track record in granting access to UN special rapporteurs to visit Indonesia to examine the human rights situation," he said.

Furthermore, in 2023, Indonesia rejected a request from the Special Rapporteur on the Independence of the Judiciary to visit Indonesia. That year, Indonesia rejected a request from the UN Special Rapporteur on Slavery, and in 2024, Indonesia rejected a request from the UN Special Rapporteur on Truth, Justice, and Reparations.

Usman said, therefore, through the position of President of the Human Rights Council, we can test Indonesia's seriousness by seeing whether Indonesia actively encourages members of the Human Rights Council, including Indonesia, to agree on firm action regarding alleged human rights violations, accepts the recommendations made, and facilitates requests for official visits from independent experts and UN special rapporteurs.

According to him, the position of President of the UN Human Rights Council will mean nothing to Indonesia and is merely a matter of pride without alignment of human rights concerns in its foreign and domestic policies.

Previously, Indonesia was elected President of the UN Human Rights Council on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The office of President of the Council is held by the Permanent Representative Indonesian Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro, replaces the previous official, Jurg Lauber of Switzerland.

This is Indonesia's first presidency of the UN Human Rights Council since its establishment 20 years ago.

As president of the UN Human Rights Council for a one-year term, Sidharto will preside over the proceedings of the forum, which is based in Geneva, Switzerland.

The Indonesian ambassador will preside over three sessions of the UN Human Rights Council, scheduled for late February, June, and September 2026.

He will also oversee the review of the human rights records of Council member states, known as the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).

Sidharto stated that Indonesia has been a strong supporter of the UN Human Rights Council since its inception 20 years ago, as well as of its predecessor, the UN Commission on Human Rights.

"Our decision to move forward is rooted in the 1945 Constitution and in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, which mandates Indonesia to contribute to world peace based on freedom, peace, and social justice," he told the attendees. delegation. (*) 

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2) Jakarta Post Indonesia assumes UN Human Rights Council presidency amid domestic criticism 10th january

Indonesia assumes UN Human Rights Council presidency amid domestic criticism Indonesia’s assumption of the presidency of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is unlikely to significantly boost its influence over global human rights issues, analysts say, even as the government hails the role as a diplomatic achievement despite mounting criticism of Jakarta’s own human rights record Yvette Tanamal (The Jakarta Post) Premium Jakarta Sat, January 10, 2026  

 

A photo shows a general view on the opening day of the 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council, in Geneva, on June 13, 2022. (AFP/Fabrice Coffrini) I ndonesia’s assumption of the presidency of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is unlikely to significantly boost its influence over global human rights issues, analysts say, even as the government hails the role as a diplomatic achievement despite mounting criticism of Jakarta’s own human rights record.  

 

While the appointment signals confidence among UNHRC members in Indonesia’s diplomatic capacity, experts caution that the council presidency is largely procedural, countering claims that it reflects elevated international standing or expanded authority on substantive human rights matters.

 

“As UNHRC president, Indonesia’s role is essentially [procedural, focused on] managing council sessions and regulating who speaks. A chair is necessary in any forum, but the role itself is limited,” international relations expert Hikmahanto Juwana told The Jakarta Post on Friday.

 

Indonesia’s permanent representative to the UN in Geneva, Sidharto R. Suryodipuro, was elected on Thursday by the council’s Asia-Pacific Group to serve as UNHRC president for a one-year term ending on Dec. 31.

The appointment followed months of negotiations across continents to secure the position.

Speaking for the first time as UNHRC president after the vote, Sidharto, a seasoned diplomat and former director-general for ASEAN affairs, thanked council members and pledged to carry out the presidency “with full respect for the principles and integrity of the council.

 

” “Our decision to step forward is rooted in our 1945 Constitution, which mandates Indonesia’s contribution to world peace based on independence, peace and social justice,” Sidharto said. Morning Brief Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning. Delivered straight to your inbox three times weekly, this curated briefing provides a concise overview of the day's most important issues, covering a wide range of topics from politics to culture and society.

View More Newsletter Read also:

 

No plan for Prabowo-Trump meeting yet as govt finalizes tariff deal “We are fully committed, like all council members, to the core principles of universality, objectivity and non-selectivity in addressing human rights issues, ensuring that all rights, including the right to development, are treated fairly and equally,” he continued. At a press briefing on Thursday, the Foreign Ministry’s human rights and migration director, Indah Nuria Savitri, reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to lead the council “with an inclusive approach”, underscoring Jakarta’s awareness of the significant responsibility that comes with the role amid complex geopolitical conditions.

 

Indah stressed that Jakarta had no predetermined agenda for the council presidency and would treat all human rights matters before the body on their individual merits.

“There is no vested agenda.

 

 

Indonesia will take appropriate action to advance human rights anywhere, guided by reports from special rapporteurs”.

 

Beyond symbolism Indonesia has served on the UNHRC multiple times since the council’s establishment in 2006, including at least six terms as a member and stints as vice president in 2009 and 2024.

 

In December, Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai announced Jakarta’s intent to pursue the council presidency, framing the effort as part of Indonesia’s aspiration to shape international norms on issues ranging from corruption and the environment to electoral integrity.

 

Days before the formal vote, Pigai reiterated confidence in Indonesia’s candidacy and touted the expected win as a reflection of the country’s human rights reputation and capacity to influence pressing global concerns.

 

He even suggested that Indonesia could play a role in addressing international crises, such as the situation in Venezuela, remarks that analysts deemed overly ambitious given the ceremonial nature of the presidency.

“Of course it is an honor for Indonesia to hold this position. Yet there really is no significant strategic value, privileges or opportunities to be gained here. I think the expectation that we can now intervene in Venezuela, for example, is coming from an uninformed source,” expert Hikmahanto said. Amid the government’s expansive portrayal of Indonesia’s global human rights standing, criticism has continued to mount at home, with rights groups pointing to what they describe as a growing gap between Jakarta’s diplomatic rhetoric and its domestic record on civil liberties and accountability.

 

Back home, Indonesia’s upbeat portrayal of its UNHRC presidency has drawn scrutiny from rights groups highlighting a disconnect between its international image and domestic human rights record.

Read also:

TNI, police laws faced most legal challenges at Constitutional Court in 2025 In a Thursday statement, the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS) described the domestic human rights situation as “catastrophic”, citing protest repression, criminalization of activists and unresolved abuses in Papua.

 

“The UNHRC presidency demands consistency between principles and practices, and a partiality toward victims, elements not yet reflected in Indonesian policy,” said KontraS coordinator Dimas Bagus Arya.

 

“Without critical reflection and real action, the new position risks becoming a hollow symbol rather than a genuine contribution to human rights.” Amnesty International Indonesia similarly questioned Jakarta’s readiness to lead the council effectively.

 

Executive director Usman Hamid noted that Indonesia’s human rights reputation is weakened domestically and abroad. Over 5,000 people were arrested during demonstrations in 2025, hundreds of human rights defenders faced attacks and the government has often obstructed UN special rapporteurs’ access, Usman said. He added that the UNHRC presidency now presented a test of Indonesia’s commitment, urging the government to actively implement recommendations, facilitate official visits by UN experts, and align domestic and foreign policies with the principles it is tasked with upholding.

This article was published in thejakartapost.com with the title "". Click to read: https://www.thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2026/01/10/indonesia-assumes-un-human-rights-council-presidency-amid-domestic-criticism.html?utm_source=(direct)&utm_medium=channel_indonesia.


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1) Military personnel allegedly beat and arbitrarily detain Papuan in Enarotali

2) Police fail to protect Papuan students during TRIKORA Commemoration in Makassar City, South Sulawesi

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Human rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/military-personnel-allegedly-beat-and-arbitrarily-detain-papuan-in-enarotali/

1) Military personnel allegedly beat and arbitrarily detain Papuan in Enarotali

9 January 2026 / 2 minutes of reading

On 13 December 2025, at around 4:00 pm, Indonesian military personnel arbitrarily arrested and ill-treated 27-year-old Papuan, Mr Nomianus Nabelau, in Enarotali Town, Paniai Regency, Central Papua Province. The soldiers accused Mr Nabealau of being affiliated with the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) without substantiated grounds. Mr Nabelau was reportedly ill-treated during arrest and questioning, resulting in facial swelling and other injuries (see photo on top, source: independent HRD). He was released the same day after authorities found no evidence to support the allegation.

According to information received, the incident began when military personnel apprehended Mr Nomianus Nabelau in the centre of Enarotali City. During the arrest, he was physically assaulted, including repeated blows and kicks. Military personnel then interrogated him under coercive conditions. After the interrogation, the authorities reportedly acknowledged the absence of proof linking him to the TPNPB and released him later that day. Following the incident, Mr Nabelau sought medical treatment in the Youtadi Village.

Human rights analysis

This incident raises serious concerns of arbitrary deprivation of liberty and ill-treatment by state agents. Under international human rights law, the State must ensure that any arrest is lawful, necessary, proportionate, and non-discriminatory, and that all detainees are protected from torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. The violent apprehension based on an unverified accusation, followed by coercive interrogation and release without charge, indicates a pattern of repressive security practices rather than lawful law enforcement. Where the use of force accompanies arrest, it must be strictly limited to what is necessary. The allegations described are incompatible with those standards.

The case also engages Indonesia’s obligations to provide effective remedies. Where credible allegations of abuse by military personnel exist, the State is required to carry out a prompt, impartial, independent, and effective investigation, ensure victim protection, and pursue accountability through processes capable of identifying perpetrators and leading to appropriate sanctions. Medical documentation of injuries and timely witness protection are particularly important to prevent intimidation and to preserve evidence. Failure to investigate and prosecute such abuses entrenches impunity and increases the risk of recurrence against other civilians in the Papuan provinces.

Detailed Case Data
Location: Enarotali, Paniai Timur, Paniai Regency, Central Papua, Indonesia (-3.9264917, 136.3648679) 
Region: Indonesia, Central Papua, Paniai, East Paniai
Total number of victims: 1

#	Number of Victims	Name, Details	Gender	Age	Group Affiliation	Violations
1.	1	Nomianus Nabelau	male	27	Indigenous Peoples	arbitrary detention, ill-treatment

Period of incident: 13/12/2025 – 13/12/2025
Perpetrator: , Indonesian Military (TNI)
Issues: indigenous peoples

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Human rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/police-fail-to-protect-papuan-students-during-trikora-commemoration-in-makassar-city-south-sulawesi/

2) Police fail to protect Papuan students during TRIKORA Commemoration in Makassar City, South Sulawesi

9 January 2026 / 4 minutes of reading

On 19 December 2025, Papuan students in Makassar City, South Sulawesi province, carried out a peaceful demonstration in commemoration of the TRIKORA Military Operation, which took place on 19 December 1961. The protesters dispersed after being attacked by nationalist mass organisations and facing repressive police response, including the firing of tear gas in front of and into the Papuan student dormitory where protesters had sought safety. The incident allegedly resulted in respiratory distress for several participants and head lacerations for two others, raising serious concerns of ill-treatment and the broader suppression of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

According to information received, participants first consolidated at designated meeting points, including the Yalimo Dormitory, Timika Dormitory, and Intan Jaya Dormitory, before walking towards the Mandala Monument of West Irian Liberation at around 09:00 am. Protesters reportedly arrived at 09:49 am and commenced the commemoration peacefully at 10:00 am. Approximately thirty minutes later, a group described as a reactionary mass organisation allegedly approached the demonstration, forcibly pulled the command rope until it broke, attempted to seize banners, and confiscated items including megaphones. An altercation reportedly followed, involving shoving between protesters and members of the mass organisation.

At approximately 10:42 am, protesters were reportedly compelled to retreat from the protest site together with police officers and return to the Kamasan IV Makassar Papua Men’s Dormitory area. The police reportedly prepared a police truck and transported protesters at 11:02 am, arriving at the dormitory at 11:09 am. Upon arrival, protesters demanded that police secure the return of protest equipment allegedly confiscated by the mass organisation, stating they would continue protesting outside the dormitory if the items were not returned.

Tensions escalated at approximately 1:00 pm, amid allegations that police were not taking adequate steps to fulfil their protective duties. Protesters allege that police officers acted as bystanders without protecting the crowd. It is reported that stone-throwing escalated between protesters and members of the mass organisation. Police subsequently fired tear gas at protesters both in front of and inside the dormitory area.

Several protesters reportedly experienced respiratory problems after exposure to tear gas, and at least two sustained head lacerations during the violence. Shortly after the incident, protesters retreated into the dormitory. Further negotiations reportedly resumed at 3:00 pm, during which police stated they would guarantee the safety of individuals leaving to return home or shop and would retreat a few steps away from the dormitory area.

Human rights analysis

This incident raises serious concerns under international human rights law and Indonesia’s obligations to respect, protect, and fulfil fundamental freedoms. The commemoration of TRIKORA constitutes a form of political expression and assembly protected by the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly under Articles 19 and 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Any restriction must be lawful, necessary, and proportionate. Reports that the assembly began peacefully, followed by interference and confiscation by a non-state group, indicate that the authorities had a duty to protect participants from violence by third parties, prevent escalation, and ensure that individuals could exercise their rights without intimidation. The reported failure to prevent or respond effectively to the seizure of protest equipment and physical intimidation by the mass organisation suggests a potential breach of the State’s positive obligations to protect demonstrators.

The subsequent police response, including the deployment of tear gas into the dormitory area where protesters were concentrated, raises substantial concerns regarding necessity, proportionality, and precaution. The use of tear gas in or near enclosed residential spaces foreseeably increases the risk of serious health impacts, particularly for individuals with respiratory vulnerabilities.  The reported injuries and respiratory distress may amount to ill-treatment, depending on severity, intent, purpose, and the manner of deployment.

Authorities should provide clear guarantees of non-repetition, including operational measures that prioritise facilitation of peaceful assemblies, timely intervention against violence by non-state actors, and strict limitations on tear gas use consistent with human rights standards. Protective measures should also be adopted to ensure Papuan students in Makassar can exercise their rights without intimidation, harassment, or reprisals.

Table of victims 

No.	Name	Description
1	Novita Telenggen	Respiratory problems reportedly caused by tear gas exposure
2	Anteks Tekege	Respiratory problems reportedly caused by tear gas exposure
3	Dasman Wenda	Respiratory problems reportedly caused by tear gas exposure, and Head laceration reportedly sustained during escalation/stone-throwing
4	Rotalina Gwijangge	Respiratory problems reportedly caused by tear gas exposure
5	Kolepian Numan	Respiratory problems reportedly caused by tear gas exposure
6	Narelak Lilbib	Head laceration reportedly sustained during escalation/stone-throwinM

Members of nationalist reactionary groups attack Papuan students in Makassar on 19 December 2025

(Photos/video)

Detailed Case Data
Location: Makassar, Makassar City, South Sulawesi, Indonesia (-5.1615828, 119.4359281) Mandala Monument for Papuan Liberation
Region: Indonesia, South Sulawesi, Makassar
Total number of victims: 6

#	Number of Victims	Name, Details	Gender	Age	Group Affiliation	Violations
1.	1	Novita Telenggen	female	adult	Student
2.	1	Anteks tekege	male	adult	Student
3.	1	Rotalina Gwijangge	female	adult	Student
4.	1	Dasman Wenda	male	adult	Student
5.	1	Kolepian Numan	male	adult	Student
6.	1	Narelak Lilbib	male	adult	Student

Period of incident: 19/12/2025 – 19/12/2025
Perpetrator: POLRES

Perpetrator details: Polres Makassar members

Issues: indigenous peoples

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1) Shrinking democratic space: Police detain environmental activist outside Divine Mercy Church in Merauke

2) Police officers accused of arbitrary arrest and torture in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, Papua

3) Criminalisation concerns in Yahukimo: Student alleged of affiliation with TPNPB

4) Four political activists arbitrarily detained in Nabire

5) Formation of Three Battalions in Papua Deemed to Have Potential to Lead to Human Rights Violations

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Human rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/shrinking-democratic-space-police-detain-environmental-activist-outside-divine-mercy-church-in-merauke/

1) Shrinking democratic space: Police detain environmental activist outside Divine Mercy Church in Merauke

8 January 2026 / 2 minutes of reading

On 7 December 2025, at approximately 10:40 am, police officers forcibly detained indigenous environmental and land-rights defender, Mr Stenly Dambujai, outside the Divine Mercy (Kerahiman Ilahi) Church in Mangga Dua, Kelapa Lima Village, Merauke Regency, South Papua province 8see photos, source: LBH Merauke). The detention reportedly followed a peaceful, symbolic protest criticising the Archbishop of Merauke’s public support for the National Strategic Project (PSN) in Merauke, which threatens customary land and forests.

After the Sunday Mass concluded, Mr Dambujai unfurled a protest poster outside the church grounds. Reports indicate that church council representatives and legal advocates argued with him and subsequently contacted police. Thereupon, police officers took him to the Merauke Police Station (Polres Merauke) for questioning. Legal aid advocates stated that Mr Dambujai was pressured to sign a written statement committing not to hold further protests in front of churches, and that his request to wait for legal counsel before giving a statement was ignored.

According to the Merauke Legal Aid Institute (LBH Merauke), the detention was arbitrary and appears linked to a wider pattern of restricting peaceful civic expression by Catholic lay communities opposing the PSN. LBH Merauke stated that Mr Dambujai had carried out similar actions dozens of times previously without being questioned, and that this incident therefore signals a targeted escalation.  A separate report citing LBH Merauke indicated the alleged basis for police involvement was a complaint connected to the chair of the parish council, named as Yohanes P. Weng, and an advocate named Hendrikus Timotius Talubun.

Human rights analysis

If confirmed, the reported conduct raises serious concerns regarding freedom of expression and peaceful assembly as enshrined in Articles 19 and 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The arbitrary nature of the (i) detention without a clear legal basis, (ii) pressure to sign a non-protest undertaking, and (iii) interference with the right to legal assistance during questioning violates Article 9 ICCPR, which establishes safeguards against arbitrary detention. Such measures, particularly when triggered by a non-violent, symbolic protest, risk creating a chilling effect on civic participation and legitimate dissent, especially for indigenous communities affected by land and environmental policies. The incident also intersects with the protection of human rights defenders and environmental defenders, particularly where advocacy concerns alleged impacts of large-scale projects on indigenous land.

Police officers arrest Mr Stenly Dambujai outside the Divine Mercy (Kerahiman Ilahi) Church on 7 December 2025

(Photos

Detailed Case Data
Location: Jl. Bahari, Maro, Kec. Merauke, Kabupaten Merauke, Papua Selatan 99614, Indonesia (-8.483057, 140.3986118) Gereja Katolik Stasi Kerahiman Ilahi, Bahari Maro
Region: Indonesia, South Papua, Merauke, Merauke
Total number of victims: 1

#	Number of Victims	Name, Details	Gender	Age	Group Affiliation	Violations
1.	1	Stenly Dambujai	male	adult	Activist, Indigenous Peoples	arbitrary detention, freedom of assembly, freedom of expression

Period of incident: 07/01/2026 – 07/01/2026
Perpetrator: , POLRES

Perpetrator details: Polres Merauke

Issues: business, human rights and FPIC, indigenous peoples

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Human rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/police-officers-accused-of-arbitrary-arrest-and-torture-in-dekai-yahukimo-regency-papua/

2) Police officers accused of arbitrary arrest and torture in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, Papua

8 January 2026 / 1 minute of reading

On 9 December 2025, at approximately 10:00 pm, Mr Natan Matuan and Mr Selis Pahabol were arbitrarily arrested in Jalur 3 settlement, Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan province. They were reportedly detained at the Yahukimo District Police Station Polres Yahukimo) without being informed of the reasons for their arrest. Both were allegedly subjected to torture during interrogation involving beatings while their hands and feet were tied. Mr Selis Pahabol was released on 10 December 2025, at 9:00 pm, while Mr Natan Matuan reportedly remained in custody.

Human rights analysis

Arresting individuals without promptly informing them of the reasons and transferring them to a police station without clear legal grounds raises a strong presumption of arbitrariness. Where arrests are conducted without transparency, documentation (warrants/records), and meaningful access to counsel and family, the risk of abuse and coercion increases sharply.

Moreover, binding hands and feet while beating suspects during interrogation meets the threshold of torture, depending on severity, intent (e.g., to punish, intimidate, or obtain information/confessions), and official involvement. Such acts are absolutely prohibited under the International Covenant against Torture (CAT) and cannot be justified by suspicion of any offence.

Detailed Case Data
Location: Dekai, Yahukimo regency, Highland Papua, Indonesia (-4.8638158, 139.4837298) Jalur 3 settlement, Dekai District
Region: Indonesia, Highland Papua, Yahukimo, Dekai
Total number of victims: 2

#	Number of Victims	Name, Details	Gender	Age	Group Affiliation	Violations
1.	1	Natan Matuan	male	adult	Indigenous Peoples	arbitrary arrest, torture
2.	1	Selis Pahabol	male	adult	Indigenous Peoples	arbitrary detention, torture

Period of incident: 09/12/2025 – 09/01/2026
Perpetrator: , POLRES

Perpetrator details: Polres Yahukimo Members

Issues: indigenous peoples

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Human rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/criminalisation-concerns-in-yahukimo-student-alleged-of-affiliation-with-tpnpb/

3) Criminalisation concerns in Yahukimo: Student alleged of affiliation with TPNPB

8 January 2026 / 3 minutes of reading

On 28 November 2025, members of Brimob under Ops Damai Cartenz (Cartenz Peace Operation) arrested 21-year-old student, Mr Iron Heluka (see photo on top, source: independent HRD), in Dekai town, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan province (West Papua / Papuan provinces), and subsequently detained him at the Yahukimo Police Station. The arrest appears linked to allegations of affiliation with the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB). Mr Heluka’s relatives dispute the allegations, emphasizing that Mr. Heluka is an active student. Following the arrest, the TPNPB Central Headquarters publicly denied that Iron Heluka is a member of TPNPB.

The incident unfolded during the night of 28 November 2025, when Mr Heluka was on his way back home from an evening gathering with friends. At approximately 02:00 am, Mr Heluka and his friends stopped near a food stall and attempted to light a fire to warm themselves. As police patrol officers arrived, two individuals reportedly fled, while Mr Iron Heluka was apprehended and taken to the Yahukimo Police Station. He was reportedly intoxicated at the time of the arrest and interrogated at gunpoint. In a separate police narrative, the Head of Public Relations for Ops Damai Cartenz, Senior Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, stated that police responded to a disturbance report, found three people acting suspiciously, and suspected them of burning a vendor’s stall.

On 29 November 2025, Iron Heluka’s relatives visited the Criminal Investigation Unit at the Polres Yahukimo and were told that his detention was based on an alleged burning incident. The family later reported receiving additional information that police also accused Mr Heluka of being a member of Kodap XVI Yahukimo since May 2025, an allegation the family strongly rejects as false. Police reportedly informed the family that Mr Heluka would be detained until 17 December 2025.

Human rights analysis

While allegations regarding the engagement of Mr Iron Heluka in arson may be proven through a criminal investigation, police officers have failed to provide supporting evidence for the association with a criminal organisation to the relatives.  The cumulative allegations (arson allegations alongside claims of armed-group affiliation) and the reported absence of promptly disclosed, verifiable evidence to the family may indicate risks of detention not meeting legal necessity and proportionality standards.

Public assertions describing Mr Iron Heluka as affiliated with an armed group, if made without due process safeguards and substantiated evidence, risk undermining fair trial rights and may expose him and his family to stigmatisation and threats. Reports that officers conducted a forced interrogation while pointing firearms raise concerns about intimidation and potential ill-treatment, requiring independent verification and investigation.

Relatives emphasize that Mr Iron Heluka is a student. Prolonged detention without a clear legal basis and safeguards can interfere with education and may reflect discriminatory patterns frequently reported in the Papuan provinces context.

Detailed Case Data
Location: Dekai, Yahukimo regency, Highland Papua, Indonesia (-4.8638158, 139.4837298) 
Region: Indonesia, Highland Papua, Yahukimo, Dekai
Total number of victims: 1

#	Number of Victims	Name, Details	Gender	Age	Group Affiliation	Violations
1.	1	Iron Heluka	male	21	Student	criminalisation

Period of incident: 28/11/2025 – 28/11/2025
Perpetrator: Mobile Brigades (BRIMOB)

Perpetrator details: Damai Cartenz Task Force

Issues: indigenous peoples

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Human Rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/four-political-activists-arbitrarily-detained-in-nabire/

4) Four political activists arbitrarily detained in Nabire

8 January 2026 / 2 minutes of reading

On 24 November 2025, at around 07:15 pm, police officers arbitrarily detained four members of the West Papua National Committee  (KNPB) at a coffee shop near Karang Tumaritis Market, Nabire town, Nabire Regency, Central Papua province, and subsequently detained them at the Nabire District Police Station (Polres Nabire). The police officers failed to provide a clear reason for the detention.  Mr Peume Tebai, 18, Mr Yosua Pigome, 18, Mr Kabel Pigay, 18, and Merten Yobe, 17, were released shortly after following requests by other activists at the Nabire Police Station.

The four activists arrived by motorbike at a coffee shop near Karang Tumaritis Market at 5:40 pm while displaying a KNPB flag (see photo on top, source: independent HRD). At approximately 7:15 pm, police officers arrived and arrested the four activists without showing a warrant. Thereupon, they were taken to the Nabire Police Station. As other activists arrived at Polres Nabire and asked for the legal basis for the detention, the officers reportedly released them without pressing charges or providing a clear explanation for the detention.

Human rights analysis

The case has various human rights implications. Under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Article 9, anyone arrested must be informed of the reasons for arrest and promptly informed of any charges; deprivation of liberty must follow procedures established by law. In the Indonesian context, Article 18 of the Indonesian Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) sets clear requirements for arrest, including showing assignment letters, providing an arrest warrant that states the reasons, and a brief case description.

The incident also raises serious concerns regarding freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association as enshrined in Articles 19 and 21 ICCPR, where the conduct described (flag-waving and travelling in public) is prima facie expressive activity. Any restriction must be lawful, necessary, and proportionate in a democratic society. Indonesia’s constitutional framework likewise protects freedom of association, assembly, and expression.

Moreover, one of those arrested, Merten Yobe, is a minor under international law. Under the International Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) Article 37(b), a child must not be deprived of liberty unlawfully or arbitrarily; arrest or detention must be a measure of last resort and for the shortest appropriate period of time, with additional safeguards regarding treatment and access to legal assistance and family contact.

Detailed Case Data
Location: Karang Tumaritis, Nabire, Nabire Regency, Central Papua, Indonesia (-3.3813459, 135.4992687) Coffee Shop near Tumaritis Market
Region: Indonesia, Central Papua, Nabire, Nabire
Total number of victims: 4

#	Number of Victims	Name, Details	Gender	Age	Group Affiliation	Violations
1.	1	Peume Tebai,	male	18	Activist	arbitrary detention, freedom of assembly, freedom of expression
2.	1	Kabel Pigay,	male	18	Activist	arbitrary detention, freedom of assembly, freedom of expression
3.	1	Yosua Pigome	male	18	Activist	arbitrary detention, freedom of assembly, freedom of expression
4.	1	Merten Yobe	male	17	Activist	arbitrary detention, freedom of assembly, freedom of expression

Period of incident: 24/11/2025 – 24/11/2025
Perpetrator: , POLRES

Perpetrator details: Polres Nabire Officers

Issues: indigenous peoples

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A google translate.

Original Bahasa link

https://jubi.id/polhukam/2026/pembentukan-tiga-batalyon-di-papua-dinilai-berpotensi-menciptakan-pelanggaran-ham/

5) Formation of Three Battalions in Papua Deemed to Have Potential to Lead to Human Rights Violations

January 9, 2026 in Politics, Law, and Security Reading Time: 3 mins read

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Author: Larius Kogoya - Editor: Arjuna Pademme

Jayapura, Jubi – Reinhart Kmur, a Legal Aid Volunteer from the Papua Legal Aid Institute (LBH Papua), stated that the formation of three new TNI battalions in three regencies in Papua has the potential to lead to human rights violations.

He stated that this concern arose because the policy for resolving conflicts in Papua has always prioritized a security approach.

According to Reinhart Kmur, based on information gathered by his office, the TNI has officially formed three new battalions in three regencies in Papua: Biak Numfor Regency, Supiori Regency, and Waropen Regency.

He said, these three battalions are new units of the Territorial Development Battalion (TP) which are prepared to carry out duties in Papua in supporting food security, infrastructure development, public health, and economic empowerment to improve welfare and security in Papua.

The presence of these three battalions has the potential to create violence and perpetuate human rights violations in Papua, because the amount of violence [perpetrated by security forces] in Papua is always directly proportional to the continued implementation of a security and armed approach through military operations," Reinhart Kmur told Jubi in Jayapura, Papua, Thursday (January 8, 2026) via text message.

Reinhart Kmur stated that, using his authority as stipulated in Article 100 of Law Number 39 of 1999 concerning Human Rights, he strongly condemned the addition of three new battalions to Papua Province.

"Adding military personnel to Papua will only lead to human rights violations and add to the long list of human rights violations," he said.

Kmur stated that the formation of the battalion would make the public fearful of the presence of TNI personnel. The presence of the new battalion would certainly be accompanied by the mobilization of military personnel.

"[This situation] is very dangerous amidst the TNI's institutional problems, namely its professionalism and human rights violations," he said.

He stated that the formation of the new battalion under the pretext of supporting food security programs, infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and other issues clearly violates the TNI's primary duties and functions as stipulated in law.

Previously, the Kankain Karkara Byak Cultural Institute (KKB), along with tribal chiefs (Mananwir Bar Wamurem, Manfasfas Bar Wamurem, and Manfun Kawsa Byak), declared their rejection of the deployment of Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldiers from Battalion Yonif TP 858, Yonif TP 859, and Yonif TP 860 in the Byak customary territory of Biak Numfor Regency and Supiori Regency, Papua.

This statement was conveyed by the Kankain Karkara Byak Cultural Institute and the tribal chiefs, who claim to represent the entire Byak indigenous community, through the Chairman of the Byak Tribal Customary Council, Apolos Sroyer, to Jubi via telephone on Tuesday (January 6, 2026).

Apolos Sroyer stated that personnel from the 858th, 859th, and 860th Infantry Battalions (TP Yonif TP Yonif TP 858, TP Yonif TP 859, and TP Yonif TP 860) were stationed in Biak Numfor, Supiori Regency, from November 29-30, 2025. The military personnel arrived in Biak aboard a Navy ship.

"The presence of these TNI Battalion personnel surprised the public. Approximately 1,700 personnel from the three battalions were deployed to Biak," said Apolos Sroyer.

According to Apolos Sroyer, the TNI personnel were divided into several locations. The 858th Infantry Battalion was stationed in the Wamure customary area of ​​East Biak, while the 859th and 860th Infantry Battalions were stationed in Supiori Regency.

"The presence of these TNI personnel is very worrying and has seriously disrupted the activities of indigenous communities in Biak Numfor and Supiori Regencies, which are part of the Byak customary territory," he said.

He said that, in general, the community was unaware of the deployment of military personnel in these locations. Only certain community members held limited meetings and closed-door meetings with the TNI, then released hundreds of thousands of hectares of land for the construction of TNI posts or headquarters. (*)

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