Police Declare Security in Wamena Back to Normal

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Papua Regional Police Chief Sr. Comr. Ahmad Mustofa Kamal has affirmed that the situation in Wamena, Jayawijaya Regency, Papua Province has returned to normal after the deadly riot. The locals have opened up their stores, especially those located in the center of the town.

“The public is appealed to maintain the unity and union so that Jayawijaya regency will be safe and under control,” said Mustofa, Thursday, October 3.

Mustofa outlines that a total of 4,489 people have been displaced from Wamena to Jayapura since Monday, September 23. The majority of them have returned to their hometown, while the rest 1,613 people are still dwelling in the refugee camp in Jayapura Regency and Jayapura City.

Social Ministry’s Director-General of Social Protection and Assurance, Harry Hikmat, said that a number of refugees suffer from diarrhea, skin disease, cough, and fever. “Poor conditions and facilities at the refugee post cause them fell sick,” he said.

Throughout September 23-October 2, a total of 1,864 refugees are under medical treatment, and eight are hospitalized, Harry added.

Social Ministry has sent aid worth Rp3.8 billion for victims of the deadly riot, including logistic needs, productive economic business assistance, and compensation for relatives of dead victims.

Some 11,000 people have left the city. As of Thursday morning, hundreds still queued at the Wamena Air Force Base, waiting to be departed to Jayapura.

STEPANUS I NYOMAN ARY WAHYUDI | WAYAN AGUS PURNOMO | ANTARA