Unrest in Wamena and Jayapura. (Image via DW)

Civil unrest in Papua, at least 20 killed and dozens injured

Once simmered, civil unrest sparked once more on Monday (23/9) in two provinces of the eastern part of Indonesia, Wamena and Jayapura Provinces, Papua. At least 20 people were killed and dozens were injured due to the unrest that involved high-school students.

The unrest that lasts for weeks was part of the demonstration by the Papuans due to the racist comments and a fresh call to liberate themselves from Indonesia as an autonomous nation.

Papuan people started setting buildings ablaze, and more likely the casualties came from the burned buildings. Papuan Military Spokesperson, Eko Daryanto, stated furthermore that more people were trapped beneath the debris and more body bags might be needed soon.

In Wamena, at least 16 people were killed in the fire that ruins government office and other buildings as well. From the casualties, 13 were non-Papuans and three were Papuans.

In Jayapura, a clash between the security force and civilians resulted in the death of four people: one officer and three civilians. The officer was killed by stabbing and the three civilians – turned out to be students – died due to the rubber bullet wounds.

From the Monday protests, about 300 people were arrested and at least 65 people were injured. The internet connection in these restive provinces had to be cut to intercept any hoax from spreading. Wamena Airport was also shut down due to the unrest and about 20 flights were canceled.

Source: https://asiancorrespondent.com/2019/09/at-least-20-killed-dozens-injured-in-papua-unrest-indonesia-military/