Komnas HAM: Worker Killings in Papua is a Severe Violation

TEMPO.CO, Mataram - Head of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) of Papua, Frits B Ramandey said the killings of Istaka Karya workers in Nduga Regency was a severe human rights violation.

“As seen from the impact, such an act carried out by the armed group is a serious human rights violation,” said Frits Tuesday, December 4, in Jayapura City.

A total of 31 workers of Trans Papua road project who were constructing a bridge in Kali Yigi and Kali Aurak, Nduga, Papua were allegedly killed by unknown armed groups on late Sunday, December 2.

Papua Police said 24 workers were killed on the first day of the incident, 8 people managed to rescue themselves after seeking refuge at a Legislative Member’s house were picked up by the armed group which followed with the killing of seven people, while the remaining one that managed to flee is yet to be found.

According to Frits, there was two human rights violation in this incident. First, based on Article 1 (6) of Law No. 39/1999 on human rights that noting a person or a group that kill another person is a human right violation.

Secondly, the incident caused the disturbance in a public service which expected to fulfill social and cultural economy of the public in Yall District and others in Nduga. “Because the workers were constructing the road and bridge which are important for the mobility and public demands,” Frits said.

Therefore, he urged the law enforcers to investigate the location to seek perpetrators and the actor behind the killings and ensure that people in Tall District and other areas in Papua are to be free from another intimidation.

ANTARA