1) Papua Airport Secured After Gun Attack Kills Two Smart Air Crew
Muhammad Aulia Rahman
February 12, 2026 | 12:22 pm
Jakarta. Indonesian security forces have secured the Korowai Batu Airport area in Boven Digoel, South Papua, and completed the evacuation of victims following a shooting incident involving a Smart Air aircraft, police said on Thursday.
Personnel from the Damai Cartenz 2026 Task Force, supported by the Indonesian military (TNI), entered and took control of the area around the remote airstrip at around 6 a.m. local time, with their main focus on evacuating two crew members who were killed in the attack on Wednesday.
“Since early this morning, our personnel have successfully secured the airport area and evacuated both victims to Timika,” Faizal Ramadhani, head of the Damai Cartenz 2026 operation, said in a statement. “The safety of the public and regional stability are our top priorities.”
Authorities said they suspect the involvement of an armed group linked to the Yahukimo-based criminal armed group (KKB), locally known as the Cannibal Battalion and the Red Ant Battalion, led by Elkius Kobak.
Security forces are continuing a manhunt for those believed to be responsible. “Our personnel are still pursuing the suspected perpetrators involved in this attack,” Damai Cartenz 2026 spokesperson Senior Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo said.
The bodies of the two crew members were flown to Timika for identification and autopsies. After funeral preparations are completed, the remains are expected to be transported to Jakarta and handed over to the families.
Authorities confirmed that all 13 passengers on board the aircraft survived the incident. The passengers, who were residents, managed to flee the area and have since returned safely to their homes. In the chaos, the pilot and co-pilot attempted to escape after the passengers but were shot while still on the runway, authorities said.
A total of 20 Damai Cartenz personnel were deployed to the site, reinforced by 12 members of the Air Force’s special forces. Coordination with the Army has also been stepped up, given the strategic importance of the airstrip as a vital access point for communities in remote inland areas.
Authorities also reported that 39 local residents fled toward Senggo out of fear following the shooting. Security forces are working to secure the area so residents can return and normal activities can resume.
“Once the area is fully secured and the situation is declared safe, we hope displaced residents can return home, and public services can operate as usual,” Yusuf said.
2) Separatist group KKB battalions behind Smart Air shooting in Papua
February 12, 2026 20:13 GMT+700
Jayapura, Papua (ANTARA) - The Head of Operations of the Cartenz Peace Task Force, Brigadier General Faizal Rahmadani, stated that the perpetrators of the shooting of a Smart Air aircraft in Korowai, Boven Digoel District, were members of a separatist armed group (KKB).
He identified the group as the Cannibal Battalion and the Semut Merah Battalion, led by Elkius Kobak from Yahukimo.
"The investigation revealed that the perpetrators of the shooting were the Cannibal Battalion and the Semut Merah Battalion, both from Yahukimo," he said on Thursday.
According to Rahmadani, law enforcement efforts are currently underway, with a team deployed to apprehend the perpetrators.
He added that the investigation and enforcement process are being conducted in a measured and professional manner, as security forces are present not only to take action but also to protect the community, restore order, and ensure a sense of security.
“The safety of residents remains our primary concern. Joint security forces are working to ensure that Korowai returns to a peaceful condition,” he emphasized.
Rahmadani said that Cartenz Peace Task Force personnel, assisted by the Indonesian military, entered and secured the area around Korowai Airport at approximately 6 a.m. and evacuated the bodies of two Pioneer aircraft crew members who were killed in the shooting on Wednesday (February 11).
Following identification, autopsy, and embalming procedures, the two bodies were immediately flown to Jakarta to be handed over to their families, he said.
“This morning, troops secured the location and are focusing on sterilizing the area and ensuring that the situation is fully under control,” he added.
The body of Captain Enggon Erawan arrived at his family’s residence in East Ciputat, South Tangerang, Banten, on Thursday afternoon.
Meanwhile, the body of Captain Baskoro will first be handed over to the company where he worked before being returned to his family.
Rahmadani also confirmed that all 13 passengers on board were safe. The passengers, who are all local residents, have been rescued and returned to their homes.
1) Attacks in Indonesia’s Papua kill three, hit plane and Freeport convoy
Published Feb 11, 2026, 05:15 PM
Updated Feb 11, 2026, 10:28 PM
JAKARTA – Indonesian authorities said on Feb 11 that three people were killed and several injured in shootings in two different areas of the country’s easternmost region of Papua, including near the operations of gold and copper miner Freeport Indonesia.
A pilot and co-pilot of a small commercial Smart Air plane died after assailants opened fire on the aircraft as it landed at Korowai airport in Boven Digoel, South Papua province, on Feb 11, police spokesman Cahyo Sukarnito said.
The plane was carrying 13 passengers, in addition to the two pilots.
When the shooting began, the pilots and passengers left the plane and headed to a forested area near the airport, he said. The pilot and co-pilot were killed, but all passengers were safe.
Mr Cahyo said it was unclear who carried out the attack on the Cessna Caravan plane, after he was asked about the possible involvement of Papuan rebel groups.
Smart Air did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Separately, Indonesia’s military said the Free Papua Movement rebel group attacked a convoy of PT Freeport Indonesia, part of US miner Freeport-McMoRan Inc, killing a soldier and injuring another officer and a Freeport employee.
Freeport Indonesia said the attack occurred on Feb 11 on the main road to the mining town of Tembagapura, prompting the temporary closure of access to the area.
The rebel group claimed responsible for both attacks, its spokesperson Sebby Sambom said. “The plane was fired on and the pilot was killed because this airline often carried Indonesian security forces throughout Papua,” he said.
He did not provide details on the reason behind the attack on Freeport’s convoy.
A low-level but increasingly deadly battle for independence has simmered between security forces and rebels in resource-rich Papua ever since it was controversially brought under Indonesian control in a vote overseen by the United Nations in 1969. REUTERS
2) Smart Air pilots killed in South Papua airfield, armed group suspected
February 11, 2026 20:02 GMT+700
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The pilot and first officer of a Smart Air flight were killed in a suspected armed attack while landing at Koroway Batu Airport in South Papua’s Boven Digoel District on Wednesday.
“On Wednesday at 11:05 a.m. local time, the plane landed and was immediately fired upon,” said Lukman F. Laisa, director general of Air Transport at the Transportation Ministry, in a written statement.
The aircraft, a Cessna Grand Caravan with registration PK-SNR, was flying from Tanah Merah Airport to Koroway Batu Airport, he confirmed.
“The flight had two crew members, 12 adult passengers, and an infant,” Laisa said, adding that all passengers survived unharmed.
The directorate general is coordinating with local airport authorities and promised updates as the investigation continues.
In response, the Indonesian Police said officers from the 2026 Peace Cartenz Operation will be deployed to investigate the attack.
“The Papuan Police and Peace Cartenz officers are coordinating to respond to the incident,” Inspector General Jhonny Edison Isir, head of police public relations, said, noting geographical and access challenges.
Papua Police Spokesman Senior Commissioner Cahyo Sukarnito confirmed the victims’ names: pilot Egon Erawan and first officer Baskoro.
Armed groups linked to the separatist Free Papua Movement (OPM) have frequently used hit-and-run tactics targeting security personnel and civilians to spread fear.
Their attacks have included construction workers, teachers, motorcycle taxi drivers, street vendors, and civilian aircraft.
In a high-profile case, New Zealand pilot Phillip Mark Mehrtens was taken hostage by the Egianus Kogoya-led armed group on February 7, 2023, in Highland Papua’s Nduga District.
Mehrtens was ambushed shortly after landing, held for over a year, and released in September 2024.
3) Papua joint task force seizes homemade rifle in Yahukimo
February 11, 2026 17:14 GMT+700
Jayapura, Papua (ANTARA) - A joint task force in Papua’s Yahukimo District seized a homemade long-barreled rifle near Jalan Gunung, Kali T Complex, Dekai, Brig. Gen. Faizal Rahmadani said Wednesday.
The weapon was secured by personnel from the Operation Peace Cartenz Task Force and Yahukimo Police on Tuesday, February 2, at 2:33 p.m., following a tip from local residents.
“Led by Commissioner Sarraju of the task force’s Law Enforcement Division and accompanied by First Inspector Samuel Yunus of Yahukimo Police intelligence, the team immediately went to the site to investigate and secure the weapon,” Faizal said.
Investigators found the rifle behind an abandoned house near the reported location and confiscated it as evidence.
The weapon was taken to Yahukimo Police headquarters for further investigation, authorities said.
“This action is part of early preventive measures against potential public security threats in Papua’s highlands, especially in Yahukimo,” Faizal added.
He said any information posing a potential threat to public safety is acted on without delay.
“It is the task force’s commitment to prevent security disturbances and ensure residents feel safe in their daily activities,” he said.
Papuan separatists have intensified attacks across Indonesia’s easternmost provinces in recent years, targeting civilians, workers, and security forces in a campaign aimed at spreading fear and undermining state authority.
Armed groups linked to the Free Papua Movement (OPM) have frequently used hit-and-run tactics against Indonesian troops and staged assaults on civilians in districts including Intan Jaya, Nduga, Yahukimo, and Puncak.
Targets have included construction workers, motorcycle taxi drivers, teachers, students, food vendors, and civilian aircraft crews.
Notable incidents include December 2, 2018: Rebels killed 31 workers from PT Istaka Karya building the Trans Papua highway in Kali Yigi and Kali Aurak, Yigi Subdistrict, Nduga District.
March 2, 2022: Eight technicians from Palaparing Timur Telematika (PTT) were shot dead in Beoga Subdistrict, Puncak District, while repairing a Telkomsel telecom tower.
February 7, 2023: New Zealand pilot Phillip Mark Mehrtens was taken hostage by an armed group led by Egianus Kogoya after landing a Susi Air flight in Nduga District. His aircraft was then set on fire.
October 16, 2023: Separatists attacked gold miners in Yahukimo District, Highland Papua Province, killing seven.
November 25, 2023: Four Indonesian soldiers died in a gunfight with rebels in Paro Subdistrict, Nduga District.
January 19, 2024: Security forces clashed with an armed group in Intan Jaya District, Central Papua. Brimob paramilitary police officer Alfando Steve Karamoy was injured by gunfire.
April 10, 2024: Second Lieutenant Oktovianus Sogalrey, commander of the 1703-04 Aradide Subdistrict Military Command, was shot and killed in Paniai District, Central Papua.
April 2025: Sixteen illegal gold miners were shot dead by an armed group in Yahukimo District, Highland Papua.
October 6, 2025: TPNPB commander Mayu Waliya was killed in a clash with Joint Task Force Habema in Lanny Jaya District.
The air and land raids in the Puncak Regency, an administrative division of Indonesia, have continued through this month since the first of the operations were launched on January 31.
Recent West Papuan social media posts report a flood of people cut off from food sources and other basic supplies.
The affected Papuans had been residing in the Kembru district in Puncak, which had initially become a refuge for those already displaced by earlier fighting in Pogoma and other surrounding districts.
At least nine separate villages in the district had been affected by the military operations.
Indonesian authorities were also believed to have cut internet access for a number of days, which prevented civilians from reporting what was happening locally to the outside world.
Human Rights Defenders say they have witnessed drone strikes near civilian settlements and refugee sites, leading to families having little choice but to flee on foot for several kilometres through forests.
More civilians from Puncak have sought safety and refuge in the regency's villages of Sinak and Yambi.
Human Rights Defenders, an official term within the international human rights community which according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights can include community leaders, journalists, lawyers and students or members of human rights organisations, have demanded that refugee areas be protected under international law.
In a statement, the advocates have asked for an immediate stop to the Indonesian military operations in civilian and refugee areas; protection and humanitarian access for displaced communities; and respect for the human rights of civilians in the Central Papua province of the Indonesian state.
"If operations are against armed groups, civilians must not be placed in harm's way," the statement said.
Benny Wenda, the chairman of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua and founder of the Free West Papua campaign, acting on behalf of three united independence groups seeking sovereignty for the Western New Guinean land, has confirmed the reports of violence.
Mr Wenda says this is an ongoing colonial project, sustained by foreign governments that continue to arm Jakarta and legitimised by the "shameful silence" of Asian-Pacific regional powers including Australia.
"We are murdered, tortured, and raped, and then our land is stolen for resource extraction and corporate profitwhen we flee," he told the Asia Pacific Solidarity Network on the eve of the first military strikes.
2) Pathways to Peace in West Papua: The Need for a Humanitarian Pause and Inclusive Dialogue
By Cahyo Pamungkas February 9, 2026
In January 2026, Human Rights Monitor reported that the number of refugees in Indonesia’s West Papua province had reached 105,878. These people, mostly Papuan native, fled from their home villages due to the protracted armed conflict between Indonesian armed forces and the West Papua National Liberation Army. My recent article provides some cases of violent impact on Papuan natives, and proposes an alternative approach to ending the conflict.
Following reforms in 1998, state policy in Papua has been divided into two domains: governance–development, and security. The 2001 Special Autonomy (Otsus) was designed as a political compromise addressing the aspirations of the Papuan elite, ensuring fiscal decentralisation, acknowledgement of indigenous Papuan rights, and frameworks for addressing human rights breaches. Nevertheless, its execution has prioritised budgetary transfers over meaningful political transformation. Accountability procedures, including human rights courts and truth commissions, have been ineffective (Chairullah, 2021). The 2021 extension of Otsus was implemented without participatory assessment, effectively reinforcing centralisation and eliciting significant opposition from indigenous communities and religious authorities.
Accelerated development policies have not succeeded in mitigating conflict. Extensive infrastructure initiatives, exemplified by the Trans-Papua Highway, have increased overall economic growth, yet failed to mitigate structural inequities. The migrant population has reaped greater benefits from development, whilst regions predominantly inhabited by indigenous Papuans fall behind in welfare metrics (Pamungkas, 2021; Elisabeth et al., 2021). An evaluation by the national defence agency determined that economic growth is not directly associated with a reduction in violence (Lemhannas RI, 2023). Concurrently, the state has enhanced its security efforts. Notwithstanding the increased presence of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), armed opposition factions have endured and strengthened (Pamungkas & Rusdiarti, 2017). Data indicates an increase in violence after 2016, especially in the Central Highlands region (IPAC, 2022).
The geographical dynamics of the war indicate a notable spatial transformation. In the initial phase of integration, the conflict was mostly focused in the Bird’s Head region and the border with Papua New Guinea; but, during the 2000s, violence has shifted to Nduga, Intan Jaya, Puncak, Mimika, and Yahukimo. Approximately 69% of violent episodes are associated with separatist dynamics, underscoring Papua’s status as a prolonged political war (UGM Papua Task Force, 2022). The nearness of combat to civilian areas heightens the likelihood of civilian casualties and widespread relocation. The prevalence of violence in politically and culturally significant regions signifies the inadequacy of governance measures to resolve historical grievances.
The humanitarian consequences of the fighting are dire. IPAC data indicates a significant rise in civilian fatalities post-2018 (IPAC, 2022). Civil society organizations have recorded infringements of the right to life, gunshot injuries, and intimidation by many armed entities. The displaced individuals are primarily women, children, and the elderly, who have restricted access to essential services. Security operations have adversely affected civilian infrastructure, with schools and health institutions being occupied or destroyed, hence intensifying societal vulnerability (Amnesty International Indonesia, 2023; Jaringan Damai Papua, 2022). Extended displacement has resulted in starvation, avoidable illnesses, and psychological distress, exacerbating the marginalisation of indigenous Papuans.
A major issue is the lack of accountability. Amnesty International has recorded numerous instances of extrajudicial executions occurring in the absence of reliable law enforcement procedures (Amnesty International Indonesia, 2023). Human rights tribunals have inadequately administered justice, leaving numerous historical abuses unaddressed. The application of force frequently contravenes the criteria of legality, proportionality, and accountability mandated by international human rights standards (United Nations, 1990). A culture of impunity erodes public confidence and strengthens views of systemic unfairness. In the absence of truth and reparation, the cycle of violence is prone to recurrence (Widjojo et al., 2010).
West Papua needs a humanitarian pause as a means of de-escalation. A humanitarian pause is a temporary halt in hostilities aimed at safeguarding civilians and facilitating assistance access, rather than conferring political legitimacy on armed groups (OCHA, 2011). Prior initiatives suggested in Geneva demonstrated promise but faltered owing to insufficient domestic political backing. Global evidence indicates that humanitarian pauses can alleviate civilian distress and foster minimum trust when supported by reliable monitoring (Drexler, 2006).
Moreover, open discussion serves as the cornerstone for enduring peace. For example, the Indonesian Government and Free Aceh Movement signed the 2005 Memorandum of Understanding in Helsinki, ending the armed conflict since 1976. The Aceh case demonstrates that protracted disputes can be resolved through discussions facilitated by third-party mediation and a robust legal framework (Aspinall, 2005). Dialogue necessitates the prior internal consolidation of Papuan players to enhance political representation (Pamungkas & Rusdiarti, 2016).
Dialogue is seen as a mechanism for conflict transformation that confronts historical grievances and identity, facilitating de-securitisation that military strategies have been unable to accomplish (Lederach, 1997). The Papua conflict represents a crisis of structural governance. Ongoing militarisation exacerbates misery without eradicating opposition.
Sustainable peace necessitates a transition to a humanistic and dialogic methodology. A humanitarian pause alleviates civilian distress and fosters initial trust, whereas inclusive discussion creates a forum for addressing political legitimacy and reconciliation. In the absence of these measures, Papua faces the peril of becoming ensnared in a cycle of recurrent bloodshed. The shift in policy towards dialogue is both a moral need and a strategic requirement for Indonesia’s stability.
Keywords: West Papua, Papua, Indonesia, conflict, peace, conflict resolution, ceasefire, humanitarian, inclusive, dialogue
Cahyo Pamungkas
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Cahyo Pamungkas is a researcher atthe National Research and Innovation Agency of the Republic of Indonesia (BRIN). His research focuses on Melanesian studies and minority rights, particularly in relation to conflict, peace and development. His writings have been published by Pallgrave MacMillan, Springer,Suvannabhumi, Asian Journal of Peace Building,Journal of Peace and Development, Pacific Affairs, Indonesia and the Malay World, Journal of Integrative Environmental Sciences, and Journal of Intercultural Communication. Cahyo can be reached via email:cahy009@brin.go.id. His orchid number ishttps://orcid.org/0000-0002-0299-127X
3) Indigenous Papuans allegedly shot dead during military operation in Intan Jaya
9 February 2026 / 3 minutes of reading
On the night of 2 February 2026, personnel of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) reportedly shot dead Mr Pit Nayagau during a raid conducted on the outskirts of Dogatalipa Road, along the Dogabu River, located in the Sugapa District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua Province. Pit Nayagau was shot dead at the scene, while Nato Japugau sustained gunfire but managed to escape. The body of Pit Nayagau was discovered on 3 February 2026.
On the night of 2 February 2026, Pit Nayagau and his friend were walking from Jalai Village towards Sugapa town via Dogatalipa Road. They did not know that Indonesian military personnel from Sugapa town had already been deployed in the area as part of a military raid. Upon encountering the two indigenous men, military personnel reportedly opened fire without warning. Mr Pit Nayagau was fatally shot. His friend managed to flee from the scene without being hit by bullets.
Following the shooting, Indonesian military personnel dumped the body in bushes along the Dogabu Riverbank. Villagers passing through the area discovered the body on 3 February 2026 and informed residents of Jalai Village, who subsequently evacuated the victim to the village, where the body was cremated. Local informants further reported that, that TNI personnel brought logistics to Jalai Village, allegedly damaging a Catholic church and a civilian house there. The TNI activities in the immediate vicinity of indigenous villages have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the local population.
Human rights analysis
Based on the preliminary information received, the killing of Mr Pit Nayagau constitutes a prima facie case of extrajudicial execution, as prohibited under Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The use of lethal force against unarmed civilians travelling on a public road, without warning and outside any active hostilities, violates the right to life and the strict standards governing the use of force by state security forces aligned in the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials. The alleged disposal of the victim’s body further indicates an attempt to conceal unlawful conduct and obstruct accountability.
The reported shooting of Mr Nayagau’s friend corroborates allegations that military personnel fired indiscriminately at civilians. In addition, the prior destruction of civilian property and a place of worship may amount to collective punishment and the deliberate creation of terror among the civilian population.
Indonesian authorities are obliged to conduct a prompt, thorough, independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into these allegations in line with international standards. Given the persistent and re-occurring pattern of human rights violations in Intan Jaya Regency, an independent international investigation is urgently required. All suspected perpetrators, including commanding officers under the principle of command responsibility, must undergo investigations and trial if incriminating evidence has been uncovered.
Villagers broought Mr Pit Nayagau’s body to Jalai Village on 3 February 2026
4) Series of unlawful arrests in Dekai continues: Navy officers arbitrarily detain two activists in Yahukimo Regency
9 February 2026 / 3 minutes of reading
On 31 January 2026, personnel of the Indonesian Navy Marine Corps stationed at the Km 6 guard post arbitrarily detained two activists, Mr Alokni Keroman and Mr Oroni Gombo (see photo on top, source: independent HRD), in Dekai Town, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Highlands Province. Both men are affiliated with the West papua National Committe (KNPB), a civil movement organisation that that promotes the right to self-determination through peaceful means. Both were detained for approximately two hours without an arrest warrant, formal charges, or access to legal safeguards, before being released.
At around 6:30 am, Mr Alokni Keroman and Mr Oroni Gombo left their home and travelled towards Km 7 to assist their parents with farm work. Around 7:00 am, they were stopped by Indonesian military personnel stationed at the Km 6 Marine Corps task force post. Without having incriminating evidence, the officers accused the two activists of being affiliated with the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), an allegation they denied.
The activists were reportedly ordered to enter the guard post, where they were interrogated. During questioning, Mr Alokni Keroman stated that both men were civilian political activists engaged openly in KNPB activities in the Yahukimo region. He reportedly presented photographs documenting peaceful KNPB activities as evidence. Despite the absence of any incriminating evidence, both men were detained inside the post for approximately two hours and subsequently released without explanation or documentation.
Human rights analysis
The short-term detention of Mr Alokni Keroman and Mr Oroni Gombo amounts to arbitrary deprivation of liberty and intimidation of civilian political activists. The use of military personnel to detain unarmed civilians engaged in lawful daily activities contributes to psychological intimidation and collective fear, amounting to psychological harassment. This conduct risks creating a climate of coercion and mental trauma among the local population and undermines fundamental civil and political rights as enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil an Political Rights (ICCPR).
The arbitrary arrest of Mr Keroman and Mr Gombo appears to have been based solely on political affiliation and suspicion, rather than on lawful grounds, evidence, or judicial oversight. Such practices reflect a pattern of discriminatory treatment against Papuan civilians in conflict-affected areas of West Papua, particularly in Yahukimo Regency, where human rights defenders documented a significant increase in arbitrary detentions in the Jalan Gunung area of Dekai between November and January 2026.
