Komnas HAM Condemns Soldier Stepping on Papuan's Head Incident

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) strongly condemns the actions of two members of the Indonesian Air Force who abused a resident of Merauke, Papua. The victim, who is known to have special needs, was being pinned as well as stepped on his head.

"This action is far from human rights standards and norms that uphold human dignity," said Komnas HAM Commissioner Beka Ulung Hapsara, Wednesday, July 28, 2021.

Referring to the UN convention against torture which has been ratified by Indonesia, Beka said that the actions of the soldier could also be categorized as cruel and inhumane acts.

He said the incident should be an evaluation material for law enforcement officers and security forces to act more humanely and respect human dignity, especially in Papua.

"There have been many efforts to make Papua peaceful. Yesterday's incident has somewhat complicated efforts to build a peaceful and prosperous Papua," said Beka.

Beka also said that Komnas HAM is also monitoring the handling of the case, which is currently being carried out by the National Army (TNI). However, he reminded that what needs to be addressed is not only the legal issue, but also the recovery of the victim and his family.

The violent experience was recorded in a video circulating on social media. The victim was involved in a feud with another man in the video. Then two TNI members came, grabbed the victim's hand, and pushed him out of the stall to the side of the road.

The Air Force Soldier pinned his hand on the victim and then forced the victim face-down on the pavement. The other soldier then stepped on the victim's head. The victim could only be heard groaning without putting up a fight. According to Papuan human rights activist Theo Hesegem, the victim is a person with a disability.

Read: Soldier Steps on Papuan's Head; Moeldoko Ensures Transparent Legal Process

EGI ADYATAMA  | MAUDEY K. SETYAKUSUMA