In brief

At the end of May 2013 there were at least 76 political prisoners in Papuan jails. The first two weeks of May saw scores of demonstrators arrested for their activities commemorating 50^th anniversary of the administrative transfer of Papua to Indonesia. Excessive force was used by the Indonesian security forces in relation to these commemorative activities. This led to the deaths of three activists in Sorong, 36 persons arrested of whom 30 remain in detention, and allegations of torture in Timika and Jayapura.

In the previously reported Yapen police death case, new reports have emerged of allegations of torture, with two of those arrested remaining at risk of torture in detention. Luis Gedi was conditionally released, while trials for Boas Gombo, the Yapen Indigenous Day celebrations’, the Sarmi arrests and the Biak explosives case continue. The verdicts for the Timika explosives case have been delivered.

Arrests

Arrests and excessive use of force in relation to commemorative events of 1 May

During the period of 30 April to 13 May 2013, three Papuan activists were killed in Sorong, 36 were arrested in Timika, Sorong, Biak, Abepura and Jayapura, with 30 remaining in detention. At least 12 people suffered injuries as a result of the brutal treatment of demonstrators by Indonesian security forces responding to the commemoration of 1 May which this year marked the 50^th anniversary of the administrative transfer of Papua to Indonesia in 1963. The Indonesian authorities issued a statement beforehand banning 1 May demonstrations, a violation of the rights of freedom of expression, association and assembly as guaranteed in the Indonesian Constitution.

On 30 April, at around 17:00 East Indonesia time, a gathering of community members took place at the house of Isak Klaibin in Aimas district in Sorong, with the intention of commemorating 1 May. Reports from human rights sources state that police and military forces in four vehicles arrived at around 20:00, surrounding the house. The security forces fired several warning shots, which agitated the demonstrators who then proceeded towards the vehicles. Human rights groups report that the security forces responded by firing into the crowd for 20 minutes, causing the deaths of two activists, Apner Malagawak and Thomas Blesia.

Seven people were arrested – Isak Klaibin, Klemens Kodimko, Obeth Kamesrar, Antonius Safuf, Obaja Kamesrar, Yordan Magablo and Hengky Mangamis – following this incident, and have been charged with treason under Articles 106, 107, 108, 110, 160 and 164 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. Isak Klaibin is also accused of being a TPN-OPM leader. According to Yan Christian Warinussy, Director of the Institute of Research, Analysis and Development for Legal Aid (LP3BH) which is accompanying the seven activists who are currently detained in Sorong police station, the police have cited Article 115 of the Indonesian Criminal Procedure Code in attempts to hinder their access to legal counsel. Article 115 states that in cases of individuals suspected of treason, lawyers may observe the interrogation but may not actually hear what is being said. Warinussy has stated that the police do not normally invoke this Article in such cases.

Local human rights investigators report that at least two demonstrators suffered injuries during the shootings. Herman Lokden, who was shot in the back, is in critical condition while Andareas Safisa sustained injuries from being shot in the foot. LP3BH investigators in Manokwari have reported that after intensive investigations, there is a strong indication that Indonesian security forces have acted illegally by firing into the crowd without warning, which is a gross violation of human rights.

A third activist, Salomina Klaibin, the sister of Isak Klaibin, who was shot in the stomach, thigh and shoulder died in hospital a few days later. Local human rights investigators have reported suspicious circumstances surrounding Salomina’s death, stating that she seemed to be on her way to recovery following an operation on 3 May and was even told by her doctor on 7 May that she would be discharged the following day. On 7 May, at around 11:00, the Chief and Deputy Chief of Sorong district police visited Salomina in hospital. Local sources reported that at the time of this visit, police prevented Salomina’s family from entering her room. Prior to this, security forces had allegedly visited Salomina in hospital to question her though they failed to obtain any information. The security forces reportedly asked her about her brother, Isak Klaibin, who is currently in police detention. Eyewitness testimony from her family alleges that on the night of 7 May around 21:00, a man dressed in a doctor’s coat and black jeans, came into Salomina Klaibin’s room with a syringe filled with a black substance. Without any explanation, the man allegedly injected the substance in the syringe into her intravenous drip, and then left the room in a hurry. Local sources reported that a few minutes later, Salomina started convulsing and wet herself on the bed. The hospital staff attempted to resuscitate her but she died shortly after at 23:20. Human rights group LP3BH has called for an autopsy to be carried out.

On 1 May in Timika, a group of civilians conducted a commemorative ceremony at which the Morning Star flag was raised, resulting in the arrests of at least 15 people, who are allegedly at risk of torture. Local activists have reported that out of the 15 who are currently detained in Mimika police station – Domi Mom, Altinus Uamang, Musa Elas, Jhoni Niwilingame, Hari Natal Magai, Jhon Kum, Semuil Deikme, Miryam Stenamun, Mon Deikme, Aminus Hagabal, Yakob Onawame, Heri Onawame, Biru Kogoya, Beanal and Alpon – at least ten are reportedly facing treason charges. Local human rights investigators have reported that at least two civilians were injured in this incident when security forces fired into the crowd. Local activists have also reported that during a visit to Mimika police station, they were not allowed to see five of the detainees who were separated from the others. It is unclear if the 15 civilians have legal representation at the time of writing.

According to human rights sources, similar events in Biak led to the arrests of at least six activists, five of whom have been named. On 1 May, police opened fire into a crowd of 50 people gathered for a flag-raising ceremony. Local human rights sources report that at least one person was hurt in the incident. Local sources have also reported that Oktofianus Warnares, who led the flag-raising ceremony, has been arrested along with Yosepus Arwakon, George Syors Simyapen, Yona Rumawak and John Sauyas. It is unclear what charges they are facing and if they have legal representation.

Local activists have reported the arrest of West Papua National Committee (Komisi Nasional Papua Barat) leader for Sorong region, Martinus Yohami, on 1 May while giving a speech during a peaceful demonstration. It is unclear if he is facing any charges or has legal representation. Markus Yenu who, as reported in the April Update, was targeted by the police in relation to his involvement in peaceful demonstrations was again pursued for arrest on 1 May by the police. Local human rights sources report that police moved to arrest him during a commemorative march in Jayapura, but protestors positioned themselves between Markus and the police, allowing him to disappear into the crowd.

On 13 May, in reaction to the deaths, arrests and injuries from the commemorative events of 1 May, a coalition of human rights groups and civil society organisations carried out province-wide demonstrations demanding accountability from the government. In Jayapura, protestors gathered outside the Cenderawasih University in preparation for a march, but were stopped by police. Independent Papuan news site Majalah Selangkah reported the arrest of KNPB leader Victor Yeimo, who attempted to negotiate with the police to allow the march to proceed, and three other activists: Yongky Ulimpa, Ely Kobak and Marthen Manggaprouw. A report received from local activists present at the demonstration states that all four activists were severely beaten upon arrest and that they were allegedly hit with rattan canes, and kicked and beaten in detention. Local activists also reported the arrests and ill-treatment of three other activists: Nius Matuan, Wily Kombo and Markus Giban, all of whom are students at Cenderawasih University. Papuan news site Suara Papua reported the alleged torture in detention of Markus Giban by Jayapura police, resulting in the university student suffering from a broken arm. Local sources state that six of the activists (all but Victor Yeimo), were allegedly threatened by the police with charges of treason, but were released several hours later when no evidence could be found against them.

Victor Yeimo has been transferred to Abepura prison where he remains in detention. Local sources report that he has been held in relation to a previous case in 2009, when he was sentenced to one year imprisonment for his involvement in a peaceful demonstration. Victor Yeimo reportedly served nine months of this sentence. He is expected to complete the rest of his prison sentence from 2009, though the length of this remaining sentence is disputed. Victor is receiving legal accompaniment from his lawyer Manfret Naa.

Oktovianus Pogau, a journalist with Suara Papua, reported police using excessive force on the crowd of demonstrators at Cenderawasih University, severely beating them and destroying several motorcycles during an attempt to disperse the protestors. Following this event, local activists have reported an increase in the presence of security forces in Sentani, Abepura and Jayapura Kota. Mobilised tanks and police vehicles are said to be carrying teargas equipment and water cannons.

Last year, 13 people were arrested in similar events on 1 May 2012 for their participation in a demonstration commemorating 1 May at which the Morning Star flag was raised. All were released with the exception of Timur Wakerkwa and Darius Kogoya who were convicted of treason and continue to serve three-year and two-and-a-half year prison sentences respectively. Human rights groups have highlighted the deterioration in the human rights situation in Papua by comparing the response to the commemorative events of other years.

More arrests in relation to Yapen police death

Local human rights investigators have reported the arrests of four more civilians who have allegedly been tortured in relation to the death of Jefri Sesa, a Yapen police officer. On 3 May 2013, Astro Kaaba was arrested by police special force officers allegedly under the directions of Yapen police. He was brought to Yapen police station where he was reportedly severely tortured until he lost consciousness for close to 20 hours. Local sources have reported that 17-year old Hans Aronggear has also been arrested and allegedly tortured in relation to this case. Yahya Bonay, Hans Aronggear and Astro Kaaba are undergoing investigation and are currently detained at Serui police station, reportedly facing charges of treason. Sources have also reported the arrests of two civilians, Luis Samai and Musa Samai, who have been released and are currently in critical condition after being severely tortured. It is unclear whether the three men who remain in detention have access to legal representation.

Radio host arrested in Manokwari

On 3 May 2013, Dimas Anggoro, a radio host for Radio Matoa FM based in Manokwari, was reportedly arrested for discussing the issue of financial difficulties faced by the Manokwari district office on air. Criticism of an Indonesian official in Papua was also allegedly expressed on the show. Anggoro was accompanied to the Sanggeng police station, where he is believed to be detained, by colleagues from the Alliance of Independent Journalists (Aliansi Jurnalis Independen, AJI). Wally Jack, an AJI coordinator in Jayapura, reportedly called on Indonesian authorities to refer to existing press laws rather than resort to arrest. He specifically quoted Law No. 40 on the press that refers to the use of the existing complaints procedure where a person or group feels aggrieved over a news item. A press release by the Pacific Freedom Forum stated that there were concerns for the safety of Anggora and his associates, as little news has been received since his arrest.

Releases

Luis Gedi released

Luis Gedi has been released from Abepura prison on the condition that he reports monthly to the police for approximately the next three years. Gedi was serving a 15-year sentence after being charged under Articles 212 and 214 in relation to violence which occurred on 16 March 2006. Clashes between demonstrators demanding the closure of the Freeport mine and security forces erupted leaving three policemen and one Air Force intelligence officer dead. Gedi was amongst the 23 people charged in relation to this incident. The torture he was subjected to on 16 and 17 April 2006 has been documented by the Indonesian Working Group on Advocacy against Torture. It included being burnt with cigarettes and beaten with wooden beams. Human rights investigators have reported how Gedi, under torture, confessed to the killing of policeman Rahman Arizona and gave the name of his friend, Ferdinand Pakage. Pakage is still currently serving a 15-year sentence in Abepura prison.

Political trials and cases overview

Yapen Indigenous Day Celebrations case: Unfair trial

On 8 May 2013, the trial of Edison Kendi and Yan Piet Maniamboi in the Yapen Indigenous Day Celebrations case resumed, with the court hearing witness statements. Local activists have reported that during the court session, the Prosecutor asked police who were present to confiscate all cameras and mobile phones belonging to observers, resulting in tension in the courtroom. Local investigators stated that the situation returned to normal when the police guaranteed to return the items later.

As previously reported in the April Update, Prosecutor Matius Matulesi called on ex political-prisoner Jon Nuntian, and Jamal Omrik Manitori, to testify against Edison Kendi and Yan Piet Maniamboi. Local human rights sources report that Manitori was forced by Matulesi to sign a letter agreeing to be a witness to the case. Manitori refused to accede to this and did not testify against Kendi and Maniamboi. However, local sources report that statements allegedly made by Jon Nuntian against Kendi and Maniamboi as recorded in police minutes of the case were read out by the Prosecutor. The Prosecutor reportedly declared that the examination of witnesses was complete though there were four other witnesses who were not present as they were out of town. On 16 May, the agenda was set for the hearing of the testimony of Edison Kendi and Yan Piet Maniamboi, but the hearing was postponed reportedly due to the absence of members of the prosecution team.

Local activists reported that the next hearing on 20 May, which proceeded with the testimony of the two defendants, revealed that the police investigation report was flawed and it was thus rejected by the defendants. It also became clear that Kendi and Maniamboi did not receive legal accompaniment during the investigation and that despite this, they were not informed by the police that the legal investigation report was signed by their lawyer. The hearing also reportedly saw the Prosecutor putting forth photographic and video evidence of a demonstration led by the two accused in Jayapura while claiming that the material showed evidence of their participation in a  demonstration in Serui. This was rejected by the lawyers of the two activists. They stated that the so-called evidence had no relation to the case at hand which involved the demonstrations held on 1 May 2012 and 9 August 2012 in Serui, Yapen island.

The next hearing, scheduled for 28 May, to proceed with the Prosecutor’s indictment  against the two activists, was postponed to 4 June 2013, reportedly because the indictment had not been received by the Serui District Court from the Jayapura High Court.

Trial begins for Boas Gombo, denied access to legal counsel

The trial of Boas Gombo, who was arrested on 28 February 2013 at the border between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, has reportedly begun despite the lack of a defence counsel for Gombo. Local human rights lawyers have reported that they have requested for Gombo to be accompanied by legal counsel, but that the trial had reportedly gone ahead nonetheless.

Trial continues for Sarmi arrests

In the April Update, Papuans Behind Bars had not yet received enough information to confirm if Isak Demetouw (Alex Makabori), Daniel Norotouw, Niko Sasomar and Sileman Teno can be considered as political prisoners. New information received from local human rights sources indicate that this can now be confirmed, in light of reports that the four men, who were arrested on 3 March 2013, have allegedly been charged under fabricated charges by a joint military and police task force in Sarmi.

According to their version of events, given in an interview with a local activist, the four men headed to Sarmi from Jayapura on 1 March with the intention of carrying out a socialisation event for residents in Sarmi, aimed at raising awareness regarding political developments in Papua and violations that have occurred during the ongoing conflict. A local source has reported that this event took place on 2 March, from 19:00 to 20:30 local time, during which the four men received information that the Indonesian military were aware of their whereabouts and activity. The four men state that on 3 March the army task force pursued them in Yanma village, where they were allegedly arrested without a search warrant and handled in a brutal manner. They also allege that the military and police authorities planted evidence in order to charge them, including bottles of medicine, weapons and TPN/OPM documents. During interrogation, the four men allegedly faced intimidation and death threats from security officials and were denied access to lawyers.

Human rights lawyers reported that the men were charged with treason and conspiracy to commit violence under Articles 106 and 110 of the Criminal Code. Local sources state that from the date of their arrest, the four men were detained in Sarmi police station for 21 days, after which an extension of detention until 3 May was issued. On 28 April they were transferred to the Regional Papua police station for further detention. On 3 May, their case was referred to the Public Prosecutor and they were then transferred to Abepura prison, where they are currently detained, awaiting their trial which will be heard at the Jayapura District Court.

Verdict scheduled for Biak explosives trial

As reported in the March Update, an appeal submitted by the defence lawyers for KNPB activists Paulus Alua and Bastian Mansoben, who were charged under Emergency Law 12/1951 for possession of explosives, was rejected by the court. Human rights lawyers have reported that the verdict for this case will be delivered by the Biak District Court on 11 June 2013.

Verdicts delivered for Timika Six

On 14 May 2013, the verdict was delivered for the six KNPB Timika activists – Stephen Itlay, Romario Yatipai, Paulus Marsyom, Alfret Marsyom, Jack Wansior and Yantho Awerkion – who were charged with treason. They were sentenced to 8 months in prison, less time already spent in detention and are expected to be released in June 2013. Human rights lawyers stated that Yantho Awerkion, who faced an additional primary charge of possession of explosives, would not be given an additional prison sentence on top of the initial 8-month sentence. This decision comes despite the court reportedly finding him guilty of possession of explosives.

Period of detention for Jamal Omrik Manitori extended until 22 June 2013

Local human rights investigators have reported that in the Serui TPN case, the Public Prosecutor has submitted an appeal demanding a longer sentence for Jamal Omrik Manitori than the one-year prison sentence decided by the court. Manitori, who has been detained since 3 July 2012, is currently undergoing a second period of detention lasting 60 days, from 1 May to 22 June 2013, during the appeals process.

News

National civil society and international community respond to brutal events of 1 May

On 2 May 2013, following commemorative events of 1 May (see ‘Arrests’), the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, voiced concern over the suppression of freedom of expression and excessive use of force on demonstrators in Papua, calling on the Indonesian government to allow peaceful protests and hold accountable those responsible for the violence. She called on the government to implement the recommendations put forward by the National Commission of Human Rights (Komnas HAM) and the National Commission on Violence against Women (Komnas Perempuan) regarding freedom of expression and underlined the lack of transparency in addressing serious human rights violations in Papua.

On 4 May, a joint statement issued by NAPAS, KontraS, Sekretariat Bersama (SEKBER Buruh), Politik Rakyat, Perempuan Mahardhika, Forum Mahasiswa Demokrasi (FORMAD), KPO-Perjuangan Rakyat Pekerja (KPO-PRP) and Yayasan Pusaka, urged the Indonesian government to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident in Aimas district, Sorong (see ‘Arrests’), to immediately release all activists and to repeal Regulation 77/2007, which has been used to stigmatise Papuans as separatists. A coalition of 11 international organisations consisting of TAPOL, the International Coalition for Papua, Survival International, Franciscans International, West Papua Advocacy Team, East Timor and Indonesia Action Network, West Papua Action Auckland, Australia West Papua Association (Sydney), Peace Movement Aorearoa, Pacific Media Centre and Pacific Scoop submitted an appeal to the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, Frank La Rue, to take action by raising the issue with the Indonesian government. The appeal highlighted the killing, arbitrary arrests and excessive use of force against peaceful protestors in Papua between 30 April and 13 May.

Papuan political prisoners reject SBY offer of clemency

Yunus Wonda, a deputy speaker of the Papuan provincial legislature has stated that Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono  will reportedly offer all political prisoners in Papua clemency under the government’s ‘special autonomy plus’ program. This offer came about during a meeting at Wonda’s private residence which was attended by Papuan figures including Papua Governor Lukas Enembe. In reaction to this offer, 25 political prisoners in Abepura prison put forth a statement strongly rejecting clemency. The statement, which amongst others included signatures from Victor Yeimo, Dominikus Surabut, Daniel Gobay, Timus Wakerkwa and Boas Gombo, called for political rights and stated that any offer of amnesty or clemency offered by the Indonesian president would be rejected. An explanatory statement signed by Selpius Bobii, stated that their position as political prisoners informed the international community of the situation in Papua and called for “real steps to bring an end to the status of the Papuan political and legal dispute.” Filep Karma has also reportedly rejected the term ‘Narapidana Politik (napol)’or convicted political prisoners, as it suggests that acts of violence were committed, when the vast majority of political prisoners are being held because of their political beliefs.

OMCT issues urgent appeal on behalf of Matan Klembiap

On 27 May 2013, the International Secretariat of the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) issued an urgent appeal on behalf of Matan Klembiap, who is currently detained in Abepura prison where he is awaiting trial. The appeal highlighted the extensive torture Klembiap was subjected to and urges competent authorities, amongst other things, to guarantee the physical and psychological integrity of Klembiap and to carry out prompt, effective, thorough, independent and impartial investigations into these allegations. Newly received information from local human rights sources indicates that Klembiap is at risk of physical and mental disability after enduring severe torture during his detention at Jayapura police station from 15 to 18 February 2013.

NAPAS and Kontras march

On 16 May, activists from National Papua Solidarity (NAPAS) and the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (Komisi Untuk Orang Hilang dan Korban Tindak Kekerasan, KontraS), held a public discussion on political prisoners, marking the launch of Papuans Behind Bars in Jakarta. The discussion, which was held in the Jakarta offices of KontraS, challenged statements previously made by the authorities, including the Coordinating Minister for Legal, Political and Security Affairs, Djoko Suyanto that there are no political prisoners in Papua. It also addressed the use of Articles 106 to 110 of the Criminal Code to target activists and political prisoners’ inadequate access to healthcare. The event featured interactive discussions with the Deputy Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Denny Indrayana, and Albert Hasibuan, the chief legal advisor to the President on Law and Human Rights. Following the public discussion, activists from KontraS and NAPAS marched to the Coordinating Ministry of Legal, Political and Security Affairs and to the Presidential Palace to demand the release of Papuan political prisoners.

May 2013 Papuan political prisoners

Papuans Behind Bars aims to provide accurate and transparent data, published in English and Indonesian, to facilitate direct support for prisoners and promote wider debate and campaigning in support of free expression in West Papua.

Papuans Behind Bars is a collective project initiated by Papuan civil society groups working together as the Civil Society Coalition to Uphold Law and Human Rights in Papua. It is a grassroots initiative and represents a broad collaboration between lawyers, human rights groups, adat groups, activists, journalists and individuals in West Papua, as well as Jakarta-based NGOs and international solidarity groups.

Questions, comments and corrections are welcomed, and you can write to us at info@papuansbehindbars.org

In brief

At the end of December 2014, there were at least 55 political prisoners in Papuan jails.

Six Papuans were killed and at least 22 others suffered injuries as a result of indiscriminate shootings by military and police officers on 8 December 2014 in Enarotali district in Paniai regency. Security forces fired into a crowd of around 800 peaceful demonstrators who were performing a traditional Papuan waita dance in protest of the torture of a 13-year-old boy by Special Military Team Unit Batallion 753 (Oknum Tim Khusus Batalyon 753, Timsus 753) officers the previous day. Timsus 753 military officers were also responsible of the documented torture of two Papuans in May 2010. This brutal treatment of children by State security forces in open and public spaces is particularly alarming and sums up the entrenched culture of impunity in Papua.

Without conducting a thorough, independent and impartial investigation, Indonesian military officials gave what one analyst called a “classic response” by shifting blame for the 8 December shootings on the Free Papua Movement (Operasi Papua Merdeka, OPM). In another response, dismissed by Papuan community leaders as fabrications, Tedjo Edhy Purdijatno, the Coordinating Minister for Politics, Law and Security told Indonesian media outlets that the shootings had already been dealt with in the customary manner, by performing an indigenous ritual of bakar batu. These responses seriously call into question the political will of Indonesian authorities to seek accountability and transparency for what has come to be known as ‘Bloody Paniai.’

While President Joko Widodo stated that a fact-finding team would be formed, it remains to be seen if it would be a joint inquiry consisting of the army, police, the National Commission of Human Rights (Komisi Nasional Hak Asasi Manusia, Komnas HAM), and traditional Papuan leaders, in accordance with the recommendations of Komnas HAM. The importance of such a joint inquiry would be to ensure that military personnel responsible could be questioned and therefore held to account. Political and human rights analysts have speculated that the 8 December shootings may have been fuelled by an emboldened military following the announcement of Jokowi’s support for a new regional military command (Komando Daerah Militer, Kodam) in Papua. Long-standing violations by the Indonesian military in Papua, perpetuated by a culture of impunity, suggest that such plans are incompatible with Jokowi’s earlier pledges of protecting human rights in Papua. On 27 December, tens of demonstrators in Jayapura were arrested for protesting the planned visit of President Jokowi. The demonstrators, along with other Papuan civil society groups, rejected Jokowi’s visit in response to Bloody Paniai.

In a separate case in Puncak Illaga in Mimika regency this month, at least 26 Papuans were arrested and ill-treated, some of whom were tortured. This case echo three other cases reported in 2014: the Nimbokrang arrests in August, the Sasawa arrests in February and Bloody Yotefa in July. In these cases, security forces continue to target ordinary Papuan civilians with excessive use of force and indiscriminate arrests in a bid to collectively punish indigenous Papuan communities for violent acts committed by other criminal individuals and groups. Such violent reprisal attacks highlight the lack of basic protection afforded to indigenous Papuans against atrocities committed by Indonesian state security forces.

One of the detainees in the Pisugi Elections Boycott case, Yosep Siep, has been hospitalized due to pains endured as a result of torture faced on arrest. Court hearings for the five Pisugi detainees have been repeatedly postponed due to the difficulty of obtaining witness testimonies in court. In Nabire, ten West Papua National Committee (Komite Nasional Papus Barat, KNPB) members were released after more than a month in detention, reportedly due to the lack of evidence to bring them to trial.

Arrests

Several arrested for demonstrating against Jokowi visit

Papuan news source Suara Papua reported that on 27 December 2014, tens of demonstrators were arrested by security forces for participating in a long march protesting the visit of Indonesian President Joko Widodo to Papua. According to a testimony from one witness, the demonstrators were dressed in indigenous dress and intended to march from Sosial Street in Sentani to Sentani Airport. On the march, they were stopped by Military Infantry Batallion 751 and were reportedly arrested by both military and police officers. They were then detained in Jayapura Regional police station. It is not yet clear exactly how many demonstrators were arrested and if they currently remain in detention.

Dozens arrested and tortured by security forces in Puncak Illaga

Information received by independent local human rights workers reported the arrests of at least 26 Papuans in Illaga in Puncak Jaya, Mimika regency following the fatal shootings of two Mobile Brigade (Brigades Mobil, Brimob) officers by the pro-independence armed movement the West Papua National Liberation Army (Tentera Pembebasan Nasional Papua Barat, TPNPB).

On 3 December 2014, two Brimob officers were shot in front of the offices of the Papuan Legislative Council (DPRD, Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Papua) in Kago district, Mimika. TPNPB members also took their assault rifles. TPNPB has released a statement claiming responsibility for the attack. Shortly afterwards, a joint military and police task force responded by conducting a search operation in the area, burning down 15 homes belonging to local villagers, who were reportedly not involved in the attack. The homes that were burned down include 13 traditional honai houses and the home of Kwarnus Murib, the local district head. 24 people were arrested and allegedly faced ill-treatment and torture on arrest. One of the detainees, Pai Murib, was released in a critical condition following heavy beatings to his stomach. Murib was sent to the public hospital in Puncak Jaya following his release, and was only able to speak and eat after two days. According to Murib’s testimony, on 3 December he was out collecting wood in the forest to use at home when police, without questioning him, proceeded to severely beat and then detain him.

The 23 other people who were arrested are Baitem Murib, Rekules Murib, Patung Kulua, Munius Tabuni, Pliton Murib, Wisisi Murib, Elison Murib, Yomis Murib, Ketamius Telenggen, Daud Murib, Penggeri Murib, Tipen Tabuni, Kitenius Murib, Matius Murib, Malukni Murib, Delpi Kulua, Agus Magai, Isak Tabuni, Manus Waker, Yonar Telenggen, Donar Telenggen and Yuh Mom. According to human rights investigators, the 23 men were not involved in the attack against the two Brimob officers. They are currently detained in Puncak Ilaga Regional police station.

On 5 December, Mernus Murib and Tomas Tabuni (a member of the Regional People’s Representative Council (Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Daerah, DPRD) of Puncak Ilaga) were arrested outside Bank Papua in Puncak Ilaga and detained in Puncak Ilaga Regional police station. They were reportedly arrested in relation to the attack on the two Brimob officers. It is unclear what involvement, if any, the two men have in the attack.

Human rights investigators reported concerns for the welfare of the 25 detainees, stating that they may be at risk of torture. The detainees are currently without legal representation.

Releases

KNPB Nabire and Dogiyai activists released

On 23 December, ten KNPB activists from Nabire and Dogiyai who were arrested on 19 November, were released. Sadrak Kudiai, the head of KNPB Nabire, Agus Tebay, Derius Goo, Yafet Keiya, Hans Edoway and Aleks Pigai from Nabire, and David Pigai, the head of KNPB Dogiyai, Enesa Anouw, Marsel Saul Edowai and Agus Waine from Dogiyai, were previously charged with incitement and treason under Articles 160, 106 and 55 of the Indonesian Criminal code. They were arrested for taking part in commemorative activities celebrating the 6th anniversary of the formation of the KNPB. Majalah Selangkah reported that the Head of Nabire Regional Police, H.R. Situmeang stated that the ten members were ‘gifted’ a Chrismas release following appeals from the local tribal leader and villagers. One of the detainees, Sadrak Kudiai, challenged Situmeang’s statement, asserting instead that they were released because police could not find evidence to detain them further.

Political trials and cases overview

Yosep Siep hospitalised; hearings postponed amid no-show of witnesses in Pisugi Elections Boycott case

One of the detainees of the Pisugi Elections Boycott case, Yosep Siep, has been hospitalised for chest and ear pains endured as a result of torture he faced on arrest. According to defence lawyers, Siep also seemed to be unable to concentrate when answering questions and is under tremendous stress. He is also reportedly suffering from typhoid. Siep previously received medical treatment but was still made to attend hearings despite his poor condition. However, defence lawyers appealed for Siep to receive intensive treatment in hospital until he is fully recovered. His court hearing has since been postponed until he is fully recovered.

Court hearings have also been postponed for the four other detainees – Ibrahim Marian, Marsel Marian, Yance Walilo and Yosasam Serabut – as witnesses did not show to testify. Court hearings scheduled for 3 and 10 December were postponed when witnesses who were called forward to present their testimonies failed to attend the hearings. Witnesses who were called forward included members of the public and police officers. According the Public Prosecutor, the members of the public were no longer living in the area and thus not able to attend, and the police witnesses were too preoccupied with policing activities to be able to attend.

Case of concern

Six dead, 22 injured in Paniai military and police shootings

On 8 December 2014, five Papuans were fatally shot by military and police officers and at least 22 others suffered injuries in Enarotali district in Paniai regency. A sixth victim died in hospital the following day. Security forces began indiscriminately shooting into a crowd of Papuans who were performing a traditional indigenous dance in protest of the torture and ill-treatment of three boys by military officers the previous day.

According to reports from local human rights investigators and Papuan media, on the evening of 7 December, at around 20:20 Papua time, three boys aged 12 to 13 stopped a vehicle in Enarotali and urged its occupants to turn on their headlights for safety reasons as it was dark. At 21:00, the same vehicle accompanied by a military vehicle belonging to Special Military Team Unit Batallion 753 (Oknum Tim Khusus Batalyon 753, Timsus 753) arrived back to the same spot to seek out the three boys. Timsus 753 military officers severely beat Yulianus Yeimo, one of the three boys, with rifle butts and slashed him on the head and body, as documented in a report by the Peace and Justice Department of the Papuan Gospel Tabernacle Church (Departemen Keadilan dan Perdamaian Sinode Gereja Kemah Injil (KINGMI) di Tanah Papua). Yeimo eventually managed to escape and ran away with the two other boys. The military officers chased the three boys and fired shots in their direction. As a result, one of the boys, Jeri Gobai, reportedly suffered a gunshot wound on his right shoulder.

The following day, on 8 December, at around 07:00, the Head of Paniai Regional police arrived to the location where Yeimo was tortured. Local villagers assumed they were responsible for the torture and ill-treatment of the three boys, as the vehicle they used was similar to the one used the previous night, and started throwing stones at the police. After an intervention from the local regent, tension eased and the crowd stopped their actions.

At around 09:00, a crowd of around 800 Papuans gathered at Karel Bonay field in front of Enarotali district police station and the Military Command (Komando Rayon Militer, Koramil) to demand an explanation for the events of the previous night. The demonstrators performed a traditional Papuan waita dance, in expression of their grievance. Military and police officers responded by indiscriminately shooting live ammunition into the crowd. Paniai-based human rights investigators and news reports stated that five people died on the spot; Alpius Youw, Yulian Yeimo and Alpius Gobai (all 17-year-old high school students) and Simon Degei (an 18-year-old high school student). Abia Gobay (a 17-year-old high school student) also died from gunshot wounds, but his body was found 400 metres from Karel Bonay field. Reports indicate that his family brought his body back to the family home. The following day, on 9 December, Yulian Tobai, a 40-year-old security guard died of his injuries in hospital, making him the sixth victim of the police and military shootings. A report by Jayapura-based church organisation the Fellowship of Baptist Churches of Papua (Persekutuan Gereja-Gereja Baptis Papua) stated that at least 22 other people suffered gunshot-related injuries. The youngest amongst those that suffered injuries was 8-year-old Benny Yogi, an elementary-school student who was shot in his hand.

On 11 December, Major General Fuad Basya, the Head of the Information Centre for the Indonesian National Army (Tentera Nasional Indonesia, TNI) told Indonesian media of the possibility of separatist involvement in the 8 December shootings. General Gatot Nurmantyo, the Army Chief of Staff, claimed that the shootings were initiated by the Free Papua Movement (Organisasi Papua Merdeka, OPM) from the surrounding mountains. Dr. Otto Nur Abdullah, who heads the National Human Rights Commission (Komisi Nasional Hak Asasi Manusia, Komnas HAM) team investigating the 8 December shootings, stated that this was impossible given that the mountains were far away. He asserted instead that military officers from Timsus 753 were responsible for the shootings.

On 15 December, Tedjo Edhy Purdijatno, the Coordinating Minister for Politics, Law and Security (Menteri Koordinator Politik, Hukum dan Keamanan, Menko Polhukam) told Indonesian media outlets that while investigations into the incident are ongoing, the local Papuan community had come to a deal with the military and police in line with customary ways (secara adat), by performing a customary ritual of bakar batu. Local church and community leaders condemned the announcement stating that no such agreement had been made and that it only served to further anger the families of the victims. The Head of the Papuan Customary Council (Dewan Adat Papua, DAP) in Paniai, Jhon Gobay, told Majalah Selangkah that such a statement represented a systematic effort by the Indonesian State to conceal the situation and to abscond responsibility for the 8 December shootings.

Komnas HAM has called on the Indonesian government to conduct a joint fact-finding inquiry consisting of the army, police, Komnas HAM and traditional Papuan leaders. Human Rights Watch Indonesia and Imparsial have similarly implored the Indonesian government to conduct a joint inquiry, to ensure that investigators can question military personnel who were present during the incident. Human Rights Watch have also called on the Indonesian government to protect witnesses present during the 8 December shootings, noting that a preliminary report by Komnas HAM showed that witnesses were “unwilling to testify” due to concerns of reprisals. A Suara Papua article reported that the local community were severely traumatised by the shootings and that a heavy presence of armed members from the security forces could still be found in Enarotali almost a week after the shootings.

In response to the 8 December shootings, that has now come to be known as ‘Bloody Paniai’, Papuan civil society groups including the Ecumenical Forum of Papuan Churches (Forum Oikumenis Gereja-Gereja Papua) and student group Gempar-R voiced their disagreement against President Jokowi’s planned Christmas visit to Jayapura on 27 December. On 27 December, in a speech addressing a crowd of hundreds in Mandala Stadium in Jayapura city, Jokowi broke his silence on the 8 December shootings, stating that he wanted “the case to be solved immediately” and that “by forming a fact-finding team” he hoped to “obtain valid information [about what actually happened], as well as find the root of the problems.”

News

Komnas HAM to monitor treason cases in Papua; Theys Eluay murder case may be reopened

An article on the Democracy Alliance for Papua (Aliansi Demokrasi untuk Papua, AlDP) website reported that Komnas HAM will begin to pay more attention to monitoring treason cases in Papua. Dr. Otto Nur Abdullah, who leads the Komnas HAM team investigating Bloody Paniai, noted that they plan to monitor the full trial process of cases involving treason charges. Komnas HAM also plans to conduct plenary sessions examining past cases, including the murder of Papuan leader Theys Eluay, the disappearance of Eluay’s personal driver, Aristoteles Masoka, and the disappearance of 17 speedboat passengers in Serui in March 2009. Dr. Abdullah also stated the possibility of reopening the Theys Eluay case to reach a verdict regarding his abduction.

December 2014 Papuan political prisoners

Papuans Behind Bars aims to provide accurate and transparent data, published in English and Indonesian, to facilitate direct support for prisoners and promote wider debate and campaigning in support of free expression in West Papua.

Papuans Behind Bars is a collective effort initiated by Papuan civil society groups working together as the Civil Society Coalition to Uphold Law and Human Rights in Papua. It is a grassroots initiative and represents a broad collaboration between lawyers, human rights groups, adat groups, activists, journalists and individuals in West Papua, as well as Jakarta-based NGOs and international solidarity groups.

Questions, comments and corrections are welcomed, and you can write to us at info@papuansbehindbars.org.

In brief

At the end of August 2014, there were at least 74 political prisoners in Papuan jails.

The situation in Papua deteriorated this month, as Indonesian security forces intensified their crackdown on Papuan civil society. Lawyers, activists, human rights defenders, priests, tribal leaders and journalists were targeted for arrests, intimidation, beatings and murder. The arrest and continued detention of two French journalists in Papua and a Papuan tribal leader highlighted the ongoing restrictions on access to Papua.

While the West Papua National Committee (Komite Nasional Papua Barat, KNPB) has consistently been targeted since their formation in November 2008, there has been an observably increased crackdown on them since April 2014. In the past five months, a total of 81 KNPB members were arrested. Data collected by Papuans Behind Bars shows that in April, there were six KNPB-affiliated arrests and in May, there were three further arrests. The number of KNPB arrests in June rose to 24 as Indonesian authorities aimed to prevent peaceful events commemorating 1 July, a date Papuans consider to be their national day. In July, there were 36 KNPB arrests in relation to a planned boycott of the Indonesian Presidential elections, the highest recorded number of KNPB arrests in 2014. This pattern continues in August with the arrests of 12 further KNPB members. One of the 12 arrested was a 16-year-old boy, who faced ill-treatment by Navy officers in Manokwari. Martinus Yohame, leader of the KNPB Sorong branchs, was kidnapped, tortured and murdered. Human rights NGO Amnesty International issued a statement condemning the murder and called on Indonesian authorities to carry out a prompt, thorough, competent, and impartial investigation into the killing.

In June and July 2014, mass arrests were recorded in Boven Digoel, Wamena and Timika. The pattern of mass arrests continued this month with the arrests of 20 people including women and children, in Nimbokrang district on the basis of alleged affiliations with the Papuan National Army/Free Papua Organisation (Tentera Papua Nasional/Organisasi Papua Merdeka, TPN/OPM). They were detained without arrest warrants and were beaten on arrest. Human rights lawyers were continuously obstructed in their attempts to gain access to the detainees in this case who remain in detention.

The humanitarian situation in Lanny Jaya is of particular concern following the reported burning down of traditional honai houses by the Indonesian military and police forces. Information received from the Advocacy Network for Upholding Law and Human Rights (Jaringan Advokasi Penegakan Hukum dan HAM Pegunungan Tengah Papua, JAPH&HAM) and the Fellowship of Baptist Churches of Papua (Persekutuan Gereja-Gereja Baptis Papua), among others, described reprisal attacks on civilians in Pirime district in Lanny Jaya regency. An unconfirmed number of people remain internally displaced, as they are unable to return to their villages due to destabilising military activity in Pirime district.

Arrests

Five Papuans and two international journalists arrested in Wamena

On 6 August, five Papuans – Areki Wanimbo, Deni Douw, Enius Wanimbo, Jornus Wenda and Ahky Logo – and two French journalists; Thomas Charles Dandois and Valentine Bourrat, were arrested by Jayawijaya Regional police. Areki Wanimbo, Dandois and Bourrat remain in detention while the rest of those arrested have been released without charge.

On the day of their arrest, Dandois and Bourrat met with Areki Wanimbo, a tribal leader from Lanny Jaya, at his home in Wamena. Reports from human rights activists in Wamena stated that the two journalists intended to ask the tribal chief about the humanitarian situation following fighting which had broken out in Lanny Jaya between security forces and an armed movement headed by resistance leader Enden Wanimbo (See item below). After the meeting, the two journalists left to return to their hotel. Dandois travelled by motorcycle with Ahky Logo. The two men were followed by three intelligence officers from Jayapura Regional police, who moved to arrest them on their journey. Human rights activist Theo Hesegem, who drove Bourrat back to her hotel, was briefly stopped by intelligence officers who told them they would be in touch shortly. Hesegem returned home after sending Bourrat back to the hotel. Shortly afterwards, Bourrat was arrested at the hotel by Jayawijaya Regional police.

After the arrests of Dandois, Bourrat and Logo, police returned to the home of tribal chief Areki Wanimbo and searched his home. Police then arrested Areki Wanimbo, Deni Douw and Jornus Wenda who were also at his home. It is believed that another Papuan, Enius Wanimbo, was also arrested and later released without charge, but it is unclear exactly when and where. Information from lawyers with the Alliance for Democracy for Papua (Aliansi Demokrasi untuk Papua, ALDP), who are currently representing Areki Wanimbo, reported that the three men were verbally abused and received death threats from police officers on arrest.

According to information from Wamena-based human rights workers, the following day, Enius Wanimbo, Deni Douw, Jornus Wenda and Ahky Logo, the Head of the Foundation of Community Teaching, Education and Development (Yayasan Pendidikan Pengajaran dan Pembangunan Rakyat, Yayasan YP3R) were released without charge after being interrogated overnight without any legal accompaniment.

While initial accusations against Areki Wanimbo and the four other Papuan men were in relation to the breaching of immigration rules, given that the two journalists were working on tourist visas, the interrogation reportedly shifted to the situation in Lanny Jaya. Areki Wanimbo was then also accused of buying ammunition to give to the pro-independence armed movement the West Papua Nasional Liberation Army (Tentera Pembebasan Nasional Papua Barat, TPNPB). While he initially faced charges of possession of ammunition under Emergency Law 12/1951 and breaching immigration rules under Article 122 of Law 6/2011 on Immigration, he now faces charges of conspiracy to commit treason under Articles 106 and 110 of the Indonesian Penal Code. ALDP lawyers have criticised the unprofessional way Areki Wanimbo’s case had been handled, with the changing of charges and unsuitable evidence.

On 9 August, Dandois and Bourrat were transferred to Papua Provincial Police Headquarters (Kepolisian Daerah Papua, Polda Papua) for further interrogation. They are currently facing charges of breaching immigration rules under Article 122 of Law 6/2011 on Immigration, which carries a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of IDR. 500 million (around USD42,700). Police have also stated that the two are suspected of espionage and attempting to destabilise Papua, and that further investigations will continue. Reporters Without Borders have issued a statement appealing to the Indonesian authorities to release them without delay.

On 12 August, Wanimbo was transferred to Polda Papua, without the knowledge of his lawyers, to undergo further interrogation while awaiting trial. The four Papuan men who were released without charge, along with human rights activist Theo Hesegem, have now been called to act as witnesses during the trial of Wanimbo, Dandois and Bourrat. 

Pastor arrested during fighting between security forces and armed group in Lanny Jaya

Reports received from civil society organisations based in Papua, including ALDP, Advocacy Network for Upholding Law and Human Rights (Jaringan Advokasi Penegakan Hukum dan HAM Pegunungan Tengah Papua, JAPH&HAM) and the Fellowship of Baptist Churches of Papua (Persekutuan Gereja-Gereja Baptis Papua), among others, described events from 28 July to 5 August, highlighting serious human rights concerns including the arrest of Pastor Ruten Wakerkwa.

Information from JAPH&HAM and the Fellowship of Baptist Churches described a meeting on 28 July between a pro-independence armed movement led by Enden Wanimbo and Lanny Jaya police, reportedly so that an arms transaction could take place. However, fighting broke out between them, allegedly due to the unwanted presence of a separate police brigade who were not involved in the deal. Reports suggested that at least one police officer died and several others were injured. The armed group reportedly seized four weapons and thousands of bullets before escaping into the forest. Several Indonesian news sites however reported a different version of events, stating instead only that security forces were attacked by the armed movement. The following day, military and police forces reportedly burned down traditional honai houses in Yugumeya and Wenam villages in Pirime in retribution. On 30 and 31 July, the burning of honai houses reportedly continued in Indawa village in Awinayu district and Ekanom village in Pirime district. Abednego Wakerkwa, a 10-year-old boy, was reportedly found dead in a burned down honai. Two pigs were also reportedly shot by security forces in Indawa village.

On 1 August, fighting between security forces and the armed group led by Enden Wanimbo resumed in Ekanom village, resulting in injuries on both sides. Pastor Ruten Wakerkwa of the Baptist Church of Jerusalam in Tekun village, Pirime district, was arrested at this time. Wakerkwa is believed to be in detention in Lanny Jaya Regional police station. It is unclear what charges he faces but he was reportedly arrested when police found a photo of the Morning Star flag on his phone. Early reports indicate that he is likely to have faced torture in detention.

Local sources reported that villagers are still unable to return to their villages due to military activity in Lanny Jaya. An unconfirmed number of people are believed to have been displaced due to the violence.

KNPB activists arrested and ill-treated for graffiti act in Manokwari

On 8 August 2014, two KNPB members, 16-year-old Robert Yelemaken and 21-year-old Onni Weya were arrested in Manokwari by three military officers from the Navy (Tentera Nasional Indonesia Angkatan Laut, TNI Angkatan Laut) and one plainclothes police officer. Reports received from various independent local human rights activists stated that they were arrested because they were painting graffiti stating anti-Indonesian Independence Day messages.

According to video testimony from Yelemaken, who has since been released, they were forced to lie down on the ground upon arrest and then kicked and severely beaten by the security forces with rifle butts and rattan sticks. They were then forced into a police truck where they continued to be kicked and beaten until they arrived at Manokwari Regional police station. Police poured the paint on them that they had used for the grafiti, and reportedly forced them to drink the paint. The two activists suffered various injuries from the beatings. Yelemaken received a swollen eye and Weya suffered cuts to the chin.

Majalah Selangkah reported that on 18 August, student activists from the State University of Papua (Universitas Negeri Papua, UNIPA) and various members of the public held a demonstration in Manokwari demanding the release of the two KNPB activists. Yelemaken was released on the same day, reportedly without the knowledge of his lawyers from the Institute of Research, Analysis and Development for Legal Aid (Lembaga Penelitian, Pengkajian dan Pengembangan Bantuan Hukum, LP3BH). On 2 September, lawyers received information that Weya was similarly released without their knowledge. He previously faced charges of incitement under Article 160 of the Indonesian Penal Code.

12 detained and charged with treason in Nimbokrang district clampdown

As reported in the previous update, in July police Mobile Brigades (Brigade Mobil, Brimob) and Papua regional police (Kepolisian Daerah Papua, Polda Papua) conducted raids in Kampung Berab in Nimbokrang district, reportedly after receiving information about alleged armed pro-independence camps in the village. An updated report received from Jayapura-based human rights investigators confirmed further arrests and continued police surveillance in Nimbokrang district. On 10 August 2014, 20 people, including four women and one child, were arrested in Warambaim in Nimbokrang district under accusations of being members of the TPN/OPM.

Information received from local lawyers stated that during arrest, at least some of those arrested were beaten by Nimbokrang District police and Jayapura Regional police. The 20 people were brought to Doyo District police station. Eight people were released without charge the following day, including the four women and one child, and three other men – Paulus Logo, Wene Naftali Hisage and Albert Matuan. Even though they had technically been released without charge, several police investigators continued to interrogate them on their identities and instructed that they remain in the police station. On 13 August, lawyers from KontraS Papua were denied access to the remaining 12 detainees. Investigators refused to provide any information regarding the detainees and instead asked the lawyers to coordinate with the Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit (Kepala Satuan Reserse dan Kriminal, Kasat Reskrim) of Jayapura Regional police station. When they approached the Kasat Reskrim, he in turn allowed access only to the eight people who had technically been released but remained in detention three days after their arrest. Upon meeting the eight individuals and hearing their plight, lawyers demanded their release. They were then released an hour later.

Lawyers continued to be denied access to the 12 remaining detainees – Philemon Yarem, Loserek Loho, Sahayu Loho, Enos Hisage, Herman Siep, Nius Alom, Jhon Lakopa Pigai, Gad Mabel, Anton Gobay, Yos Watei, Matius Yaung and Alpi Pahabol. Investigators at Doyo District police station refused their request of a copy of the arrest warrant, stating instead that this was not possible without permission from the Head of the Regional police (Kepala Polisi Resort, Kapolres).  On 14 August, after hours of negotiation with the police, lawyers managed to obtain arrest warrants for only four of the detainees – Philemon Yare, Loserek Loho, Sahayu Loho and Enos Hisage. On 18 August, lawyers were permitted to meet these four detainees to get the Power of Attorney letters signed but were not allowed to hold discussions with them.

In the following days, after continued barriers to access, lawyers managed to negotiate with police to meet with the eight other detainees in order to get their Power of Attorney letters signed. According to lawyers, six of the detainees do not speak Indonesian, exposing them to greater vulnerability during their legal process. The 12 men face charges of treason under Article 106 of the Indonesian Penal Code. On 26 August, lawyers submitted a letter of complaint to the Head of Papua Provincial police outlining the barriers they faced to attaining free access to the 12 detainees and the ill-treatment faced by the detainees on arrest and in detention.

UNCEN authorities continue working with police to disperse demonstrations; journalist attacked

On 15 August, nine student activists belonging to the Papuan Student Youth Movement (Gerakan Mahasiswa Pemuda Rakyat Papua, GempaR) were arrested during a demonstration against the New York Agreement of 1962 at the Cenderawasih University (Universitas Cenderawasih, UNCEN) campus. Jubi reported the arrests of two of the nine students – Regina Wenda and Ribka Komba. It is believed they were released early on. The seven remaining students – Benny Hisage, Yason Ngelia, Klaos Pepuho, Gerson Rumrapuk, Bram Demetouw, Markus Dumupa and Yulianus Dumupa – were arrested by Abepura District police under the instruction of the Assistant Rector of UNCEN, Frederik Sokoy, echoing arrests made in July at the request of Paulina Watofa, the ex-Dean of the Medical School.

Papuan media sources Jubi and Suara Papua reported the intimidation and physical attack on Jubi journalist Aprila Wayar. While photographing the event, Wayar was approached by five police officers who attempted to seize her iPad. The Head of Regional police was reported to have told her that as the demonstration was illegal, journalists were not allowed to take photos of the event. She was then strangled by a police officer and dragged towards a police truck. Her protestations were ignored, even when she told police that she was a journalist. She was released only after several other people negotiated with the police.

On arrest, Ngelia, Rumrapuk and Hisage were beaten with rifle butts. Police seized IDR. 200,000 from Benny Hisage and handphones belonging to Dumupa and Pepuho. On 16 August, five of the seven students – Benny Hisage, Gerson Rumrapuk, Bram Demetouw, Markus Dumupa and Yulianus Dumupa – were released without charge. On 20August, Klaos Pepuho and Yason Ngelia were released upon the request of Assistant Rector Sokoy. The charges for Pepuho and Ngelia were suspended, putting them at risk of being rearrested and for charges against them to be resumed should they hold further demonstrations in the UNCEN campus.

KNPB activists detained over opening of KNPB office in Asmat

On 11 August, ten KNPB activists were arrested in Asmat by Asmat Regional police, reportedly under the instructions of the local regent. They were arrested and interrogated for four hours in relation to the opening of a KNPB office in Asmat. A human rights activist reported that around 300 people demonstrated for the release of the KNPB activists. All ten activists have since been released.

Head of Papuan cultural group arrested in Raja Ampat

On 22 August, at around 23:00, Abner Bastian Wanma, the Head of Sanggar Budaya SARAK-Sorong, a Papuan cultural group, was arrested in Waisai, Raja Ampat by 11 fully armed plainclothes officers from a joint task force composed of the Papuan National Police (Polisi Daerah Papua, Polda Papua) and Raja Ampat Regional police investigators (Reserse Polres Raja Ampat). LP3BH have issued a statement protesting the unprocedural manner of his arrest and calling for his unconditional release. It is uncertain whether Wanma faces any charges, and under what basis he was arrested.

Releases

Victor Yeimo released

On 5 August, Victor Yeimo, the General Secretary of KNPB, was released on parole from Abepura prison. Yeimo was first arrested on 21 October 2009 and initially sentenced to three years in jail for conspiracy to commit treason. His sentence was later decreased to one year’s imprisonment. He was then arrested for a second time on 13 May 2013 while leading a demonstration and was ordered to finish the rest of his three-year sentence given in 2009. This is despite the fact that the sentence had been decreased to a year.

Five detainees in Timika 1 May case released

Credible information received from a local source in Timika confirmed the release of the five detainees in the Timika 1 May case – Domi Mom, Alfisu Wamang, Musa Elas, Eminus Waker and Yacob Onawame. The five men being tried for a peaceful flag-raising ceremony in Timika in May 2013 were given eight month prison sentences on 25 November 2013. The men were convicted of conspiracy to commit treason for their role in the ceremony, were reportedly tortured on arrest and have suffered various health problems while in prison, for which they did not receive medical attention.

Kristianus Madai released

Human rights lawyers from KontraS Papua reported the release of Kristianus Delgion Madai from Abepura prison on 3 August 2014 following the end of his six-month prison sentence. He was charged for possession of ammunition under Emergency Law 12/1951 after being arrested for allegedly smuggling eight 8.4mm calibre bullets while in transit at Sentani Aiport. Lawyers reported that it is possible that Madai was sentenced due to his previous activity in peaceful student demonstrations in Jakarta, during the visit of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

Political trials and cases overview

Sasawa detainees charged with rebellion

Information from defence lawyers from the Alliance for Democracy for Papua (Aliansi Demokrasi untuk Papua, ALDP) reported that the seven detainees in the Sasawa arrests case are charged with rebellion under Article 108 of the Indonesian Penal Code for allegedly being involved the armed pro-independence movement, the West Papua National Army (Tentara Nasional Papua Barat, TNPB). This charge is on top of their charges of treason under Article 106 and possession of sharp weapons under the Emergency Law 12/1951. The next court session on 1 September will hear the testimonies of the witnesses.

According to information from local human rights defenders, the defendants Salmon Windesi, Peneas Reri, Kornelius Woniana, Obeth Kayoi, Rudi Otis Barangkea, Jemi Yermias Kapanai and Septinus Wonawoai were arrested during a military raid on Sasawa village targeting TPN/OPM members. Information published on ALDP’s website reported that the seven men faced torture on arrest by police and military forces. Defence lawyers from ALDP have stated that the seven men are not members of any armed movements but are instead ordinary civilians of Sasawa village with regular professions.

Five detained in 9 July Boycott arrests face charges of conspiracy to endanger security of persons or property

ALDP lawyers reported that Yosep Siep, Ibrahim Marian, Marsel Marian, Yance Walilo and Yosasam Serabut, who were arrested on 9 July, are currently facing charges under Articles 187 and 164 for conspiracy to endanger security of persons or property, for reportedly making and using explosives. The five men were arrested alongside 13 others, who have since been released, for their involvement in the distribution of flyers calling for an election boycott. ALDP lawyers were informed by the five men and their family members that they faced torture on arrest.

Two in Yalengga flag-raising case no longer in detention

Reports received from ALDP lawyers stated that Obed Kosay and Oskar Hilago in the Yalengga flag-raising case are no longer in detention. It is believed that they have escaped from Wamena prison. Clemency for the case is currently being considered at the Indonesian State Secretariat (Sekretariat Negara Republik Indonesia, Setneg). Meki Elosak and Wiki Meaga remain behind bars in Wamena prison.

Report reveals new details in Pirime shootings 2012 case

Newly received reports from Jayapura-based human rights sources reveal more information regarding the case of Yogor Telenggen. Information regarding this case has been difficult to obtain, and early reports received indicated that Telenggen was likely to be a political prisoner, as according to Papuans Behind Bars guidelines. More detailed reports however suggest otherwise and he has therefore been taken off the list of political prisoners. However, these reports have revealed concerning details on the case, including the arrests of three other people.

On 10 March 2013, Yogor Telenggen was arrested by Jayapura police and brought to Papuan Provincial Police Headquarters under accusations of an attack on Pirime District police station on 27 November 2012. On the way to the police station, he was hit on the face and beaten six times on the back with a rifle butt. His family was reportedly not told of his arrest. On 5 July 2013, Usmin Telenggen, a student, was arrested by Jayapura police in connection with the same case. During their detention in Papuan Provinicial police station, both detainees were not allowed legal representation. On 2 October 2013, they were transferred to Wamena Regional police station while awaiting trial. They did not have any legal representation throughout the length of their trial. On 15 June 2014, they were both sentenced to 10 years imprisonment. Two days later, they were re-sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of murder and violence against persons or property under Articles 340, 338, 170 and 251 of the Indonesian Penal Code and possession of weapons under the Emergency Law 1/1951. Upon sentencing, they were transferred to Abepura prison to serve their sentences.

Reports also described the arrests of two other men in Puncak Jaya. In connection with this case on 4 April 2014, Gision Wonda was arrested, while Dimion Telenggen was arrested two days later. They were initially detained in Papua Provincial Police Headquarters but were later transferred to Wamena Regional police station. They have both reportedly faced torture and intimidation in detention. Human rights workers reported that they were electrocuted, beaten with rifle butts and severely beaten in detention. Under torture, they have reportedly confessed to their involvement in the attack on Pirime District police station on 27 November 2012. They currently do not have legal representation.

Cases of concern

KNPB Sorong leader kidnapped and murdered

Reports received from KNPB activists described the kidnapping and murder of Martinus Yohame, the Head of KNPB Sorong. On 19 August, Yohame alongside other KNPB and People’s Local Parliament (Parlemen Rakyat Daerah, PRD) members held a press conference in Sorong addressing the visit of Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono aimed at promoting tourism to Raja Ampat. Yohame criticised the move as being harmful to the ecosystem and environment in Papua. After the press conference, he reportedly received a phone call from a woman who claimed to be from the National Committee on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) in Jakarta. The caller requested a meeting with Yohame, who obliged. They met in front of the Mayor’s office where the woman then offered to have a meal with Yohame. A man was also present, who was reportedly filming their actions. Before leaving, the woman told Yohame that they would stay in touch with him. Activists alleged that Yohame went missing on 20 August after leaving his home at around 12:00 to answer a phone call from the woman. He was allegedly told by the caller to cross the road from his home.

As reported in Tabloid Jubi, on 26 August, Martinus Yohame’s body was found by a fisherman close to the shore of Nana Island, in the Doom island area of Sorong. He was found in a sack, with his hands and feet tied. According to the hospital autopsy report, Yohame was shot in the left chest area and his face was smashed in due to heavy beatings.  A 1×1 cm hole was found in his left chest and a 2x3cm hole was found in the right side of his stomach, suggesting bullet wounds. The body’s height was 1.79 metres and had dreadlocks, fitting Yohame’s description. The KNPB have stated that they believe that Yohame was kidnapped and murdered by Special Forces Command (Komando Pasukan Khusus, Kopassus) officers.

Yohame had previously been arrested following his involvement in peaceful political activity. On 26 November 2013, Yohame and two other KNPB activists were arrested and detained for several hours because of their involvement in the demonstrations supporting the Sorong to Samarai campaign, which aimed to gather signatories from across Papua New Guinea in support of West Papua’s membership application to the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

Human rights lawyer summoned twice by Jayapura police

Prominent human rights lawyer Gustaf Kawer has received two summonses under accusations of coercion and rebelliousness under Articles 211 and 212 of the Indonesian Penal Code. On 22 August, a first summons was issued stating that Kawer had been called as a witness to a case against himself. On 25 August, he was sent a second summons that explained that he had been reported by an administrative court judge. It concerned a protest Kawer had made against Jayapura court judges during a hearing on an indigenous land dispute with the government held on 12 June 2014. He protested the judge’s decision to dismiss his request for adjournment and hold the hearing without his presence. In 2012, Kawer was threatened with prosecution when he represented the Jayapura Five who were accused of treason.

News 

Filep Karma rejects Indonesian Independence Day remission

On 17 August, Filep Karma rejected a six month remission offered to him as part of remissions given to prisoners annually on Indonesia’s Independence Day. Karma stated that accepting a remission was akin to admitting to being guilty of wrongdoing, which he rejects. Karma is serving 15 years in prison for organising a flag-raising ceremony in Abepura in 2004. This December will see the 10^th anniversary of his imprisonment.

August 2014 Papuan political prisoners 

* Apolos Sewa, Yohanis Goram Gaman, Amandus Mirino and Samuel Klasjok are currently facing charges of conspiracy to commit treason. Even though they were bailed a day after their arrest, they are currently undergoing investigation and are vulnerable to re-arrest. They are currently obliged to report to the police twice a week.

Papuans Behind Bars aims to provide accurate and transparent data, published in English and Indonesian, to facilitate direct support for prisoners and promote wider debate and campaigning in support of free expression in West Papua.

Papuans Behind Bars is a collective effort initiated by Papuan civil society groups working together as the Civil Society Coalition to Uphold Law and Human Rights in Papua. It is a grassroots initiative and represents a broad collaboration between lawyers, human rights groups, adat groups, activists, journalists and individuals in West Papua, as well as Jakarta-based NGOs and international solidarity groups.

Questions, comments and corrections are welcomed, and you can write to us at info@papuansbehindbars.org

In brief

At the end of September 2014, there were at least 74 political prisoners in Papuan jails.

New reports of attacks against lawyers in Papua indicate that the situation is becoming worse for those involved in human rights work. A public attack on Latifah Anum Siregar, a lawyer with the Democracy Alliance for Papua (Aliansi Demokrasi untuk Papua, ALDP) and the failure of Indonesian authorities to end legal intimidation towards Gustaf Kawer, as reported in our previous update, demonstrates the dangers faced by lawyers involved in politically sensitive cases.

Reports from the Advocacy Network for Upholding Law and Human Rights (Jaringan Advokasi Penegakan Hukum dan HAM Pegunungan Tengah Papua, JAPH&HAM), based in Wamena, described police complicity in allowing violence to continue during a fight that broke out between two groups in Lanny Jaya. Two traditional honai houses belonging to tribal leader and political detainee Areki Wanimbo were burned down by an opposing group during the violence, whilst Jayawijaya Regional police reportedly watched and failed to stop the incident from occuring.  Another incident involving police complicity in allowing violence reportedly took place in Youtefa Market in Abepura. David Boleba, an indigenous Papuan, was publically tortured, mutilated and murdered by a group of non-Papuan youths, reportedly in the presence of an Abepura District police officer. Again, the police officer took no action against the perpetrators.

There were several reports of random acts of police brutality against indigenous Papuans. A 15-year-old boy was shot in the leg three times by members of the police Mobile Brigades (Brigades Mobil, Brimob) for simply blocking their vehicle. In another case, a student of Cenderawasih University (Universitas Cenderawasih, UNCEN) and activist with the West Papua National Committee (Komite Nasional Papua Barat, KNPB) Rigo Wenda was publically tortured in Waena by Indonesian army officers with bayonet blades in a random act of violence.

Information received by ALDP detailed the torture and cruel and degrading treatment faced by 18 men arrested in Wamena in the Boycott Presidential Elections case. Despite the fact that they were initially arrested for peacefully calling for an election boycott, they were instead charged for reportedly making and using explosives. The criminalisation of the freedom to not participate in a democratic process is an undemocratic step backwards for Indonesia.

Indigenous Papuans from the highlands, such as areas like Wamena, are often automatically deemed to be separatists by Indonesian authorities. Because of this stigmatisation, security forces often take a heavy handed approach with highlanders and single them out for arrests, intimidation and torture. Reports received this month described continued violent reprisals against indigenous communities in Wamena. Security forces continued to burn down houses as they hunt for members of armed pro-independence movements.

Indonesian authorities have so far failed to investigate into the murder of KNPB Sorong leader Martinus Yohame. It remains to be seen if steps will be taken towards accountability and justice, or if like previous cases of murder of Papuan activists, it will go uninvestigated and unpunished. The entrenched culture of impunity that currently runs throughout police and military units in Papua poses a serious threat to human rights and democracy in Indonesia.

Arrests

There were no reported political arrests in September 2014.

Releases

There were no reported releases in September 2014.

Political trials and cases overview

Human rights lawyer in Areki Wanimbo case attacked; arrest ruled as procedural

On 16 September, prominent human rights lawyer with ALDP, Latifah Anum Siregar, was attacked in Wamena on the way back to her hotel after a court hearing. At around 7.30pm, Siregar was attacked by an unidentified person armed with a knife who stole her bag and injured her hand before fleeing the scene. She received two stitches for her wound. It is believed that she may have been targeted for her involvement in the trial of Areki Wanimbo. Despite not having conducted any investigations into the incident, on 25 September Papuan police issued a statement published in Papuan newspaper Cenderawasih Pos that denied that the attack was in any way related to the trial. Papuan and Indonesian human rights groups such as LP3BH, KontraS, Napas and AMP have called on Indonesian authorities to conduct investigations into the attack.

Since 10 September, pretrial hearings were held examining the legality of the arrest of Areki Wanimbo. Defence lawyers from ALDP argued that the formal requirements of an arrest were not met by Jayawijaya Regional police at the time of arrest. Lawyers also stated that the arrests were unprocedural as Wanimbo was arrested without an arrest warrant and that he was detained in Jayawijaya Regional police station in Wamena for more than 24 hours without a detention warrant. Lawyers also criticised police for arresting Wanimbo based on charges which were then dropped and replaced by different charges. While he was initially charged under Emergency Law 12/1951 and Article 122 of Law 6/2011 on Immigration, he is now facing charges of conspiracy to commit treason under Article 106 and 110 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. On 29 September, Wamena District Court ruled in favour of Jayawijaya Regional police, stating that the arrest was conducted in compliance with regulations.

The case of the French journalists Thomas Charles Dandois and Valentine Bourrat, who were arrested after visiting Areki Wanimbo, has been transferred to Jayapura District prosecutors. They are currently facing charges of breaching immigration rules under Article 122 of Law 6/2011 on Immigration, which carries a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of IDR. 500 million (around USD 42,700).

Boycott Election detainees tortured

Information published on the ALDP website revealed details of torture and cruel and degrading treatment in the arrests of 18 people on 12 July in Wamena, in relation to the 9 July Presidential Elections boycott (as reported in our July update). 13 of those arrested have been released, while Yosep Siep, Ibrahim Marian, Marsel Marian, Yance Walilo and Yosasam Serabut remain in detention.

ALDP stated that on 12 July, a joint military and police task force raided Wara village in Pisugi district, Jayawijaya regency. Those arrested were tied together with rope and dragged along a ditch towards a vehicle parked on a main road. The men were chained together with their necks and hands tied with nylon twine, which meant that if one person fell down, the rest too would be dragged down. They were also reportedly beaten with rifle butts. Ibrahim Marians was beaten until he fainted and was then thrown into a ditch by security forces. Yance Walilo was severely beaten with a rifle butt and as a result has lost hearing in one ear.

Another man, Novi Alua, was repeatedly kicked in the chest and suffered difficulty breathing. Other villagers received threats that they would be bayonneted. The wife of Yosep Siep, one of the men who remains in detention, was hit on the ear and suffered temporary hearing loss. Another woman, Ape Wetipo, was punched in the chin and had difficulty eating for some time. Security forces also ransacked and ruined homes, reportedly destroyed their food supplies, slashed livestock with machetes and threatened to burn down the houses of Yosep Siep and Yance Walilo. Other items were also allegedly destroyed including noken bags from Yosep Siep’s family that had been made for sale.

The 18 men who were arrested were brought to Jayawijaya Regional police station for interrogation where they continued to face torture.  While being questioned they were allegedly kicked, beaten and electrocuted. Jayawijaya police reportedly used a hammer to hit their spines, heads and toes. ALDP lawyers reported that some of the detainees who have already been released suffered broken bones as a result of being beaten with hammers and are receiving traditional medication in their village. There have also been reports of the detainees being denied access to visits from their families.

The five men who remain in detention are currently facing charges under Articles 187 and 164 for conspiracy to endanger security of persons or property, for reportedly making and using explosives.

ALDP lawyers stated that police have so far failed to clearly explain what explosives the five men allegedly possess or a clarification on why they are being charged under these articles.

Lawyers submit letter of complaint in Nimbokran case

On 26 August, human rights lawyers representing the 12 detainees in the Nimbokran arrests case submitted a letter of complaint to the Head of Papua National Police province, criticising the barriers they faced while attempting to gain access to their clients while they were detained in Jayapura Regional police station, and the ill-treatment the detainees faced on arrest.

The letter stated that police officers forced Sahayu Loho, one of the 12 men that remain in detention, to wear military fatigues and pose with several objects that had been found during one of their searches, including arrows and a baton, and then photographed him. Paulus Logo, who has since been released, was hit repeatedly on the neck with rifle butts, beaten on the back with batons and hit on the head with a wooden stick on arrest. Wene Naftali Hisage was also hit repeatedly with rifle butts and beaten with batons on arrest. In detention at Jayapura Regional police station, Hisage was hit on the mouth, back and neck with a wooden plank and his legs were stamped on by police officers. He had acted as a translator for those detainees who do not speak Indonesian, and police started beating him when they thought his translation was insufficient. A woman named Amina Sapla was hit on the back and left arm with a car jack. The letter also stated that another detainee, Jhon Lakopa Pigai, still had visible injuries from beatings endured on arrest and in detention.

The 12 men face charges of treason under Article 106 of the Indonesian Penal Code.

Supreme Court increases prison sentence of Biak 1 May detainee

Information received from defence lawyers in the Biak 1 May case reported that one of the six detainees, Oktovianus Warnares, has been sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment by the Indonesian Supreme Court. This is an increase from the prison sentence handed down by the Biak High Court of five years.

Cases of concern

UNCEN student and activist publically tortured in Waena

On 2 September, KNPB member and UNCEN student Rigo Wenda was allegedly beaten and stabbed by Indonesian army officers in Waena, Jayapura. A report received from an independent human rights worker stated that military officers who were guarding a security post approached Wenda and his brother as they were on their way home and reportedly started beating them without any reason. The two men reacted in self-defence and attempted to fight off the military officers. Military officers then slashed Rigo Wenda with a bayonet blade on his thigh, knee, chest, ear and stabbed him in the stomach. Wenda was reported to be in a critical condition and unable to breathe without the help of respiratory equipment. Later on the same day, UNCEN students demonstrated against the incident and called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. It is unclear whether police are conducting any investigations into this incident.

Papuan man publically mutilated and murdered close to Youtefa market, Abepura

On 7 August, David Boleba, an indigenous Papuan, was publically tortured, mutilated and murdered by a group of immigrant youth close to Youtefa market in Abepura. His relative Daniel Boleba suffered beatings and gunshot wounds. The incident reportedly took place in the presence of an Abepura District police officer who took no measures to stop the violence from occurring.

Testimony from Daniel Boleba recorded in a report from the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Desk (Keadilan, Perdamaian dan Keutuhan Ciptaan, KPKC) of the Evangelical Christian Church (Gereja Kristen Injili, GKI) stated that at around midnight, a fight broke out between a group of immigrant youth and Daniel Boleba. One of the youths hit Daniel Boleba with a glass bottle on his head while another threatened him with a pistol. Once the fight subsided, he then left to inform his relative David Boleba of the incident. David and Daniel Boleba then both headed to the place of the incident to confront the group of youths. The two men were then attacked by the group and both suffered gunshot wounds. While Daniel managed to escape, David Boleba was beaten to death by the group. According to testimony from Daniel Boleba, an Abepura District police officer named Robby Fingkrew was present at the time of the incident, who reportedly did nothing to stop the youths.

Upon escaping, Daniel Boleba sought treatment in Bhayangkara hospital for his gunshot and other wounds. According to testimony from the victims’ family, David Boleba’s body was found mutilated; his head had been sliced with a sharp weapon and two of his legs were amputated. The family stated that only one man had been arrested by police so far.

Police fail to stop burning of two houses belonging to Areki Wanimbo

A report received by the Advocacy Network for Upholding Law and Human Rights (Jaringan Advokasi Penegakan Hukum dan HAM Pegunungan Tengah Papua, JAPH&HAM) reported a fight that broke out between two groups in Lanny Jaya on 18 September, which led to the burning down of two traditional honai houses of Areki Wanimbo. The report alleged that at the time of the incident, Jayawijaya Regional police were present at the scene and made no efforts to stop the violence and arson. Police did however fire gunshots, injuring 18-year-old Kukes Wandikbo, who suffered wounds on the neck and back. According to the report received, while it does not seem that the burning down of the houses was in any way related to the trial Wanimbo is currently facing, police may have allowed the incident to happen due to the fact that Wanimbo is currently standing trial for charges of conspiracy to commit treason.

Military and police continue to terrorise villagers in Pirime district

As reported in our last update, the humanitarian situation in Lanny Jaya was of particular concern following fighting that broke out between Indonesian police and military forces and a pro-independence armed movement led by Enden Wanimbo. Information published on the KNPB website reported similar concerns, stating that on 26 and 27 September, security forces continued to burn down houses in Indawa village in Pirime district. Security forces also allegedly shot and killed the villagers’ livestock. KNPBNews reported that the situation in Lanny Jaya remains unstable with villagers being forced to flee their homes. On 1 August, during a similar raid on Ekanom village in Pirime district, Pastor Ruten Wakerkwa was arrested when police found a photo of the Morning Star flag on his phone. Early reports indicate that he is likely to have faced torture in detention. It remains unclear what charges Wakerkwa faces if any. It is believed that he remains in detention in Lanny Jaya Regional police station.

15-year-old boy shot by Brimob officers

A report from JAPH&HAM described the shooting of Weak Wantik, a 15-year-old boy, on 6 September in Kosiape village in Musatfak district, Jayawijaya regency. Wantik was reportedly drunk when he stopped a car containing four Mobile Brigades (Brigades Mobil, Brimob) officers with the intention of asking for a cigarette. The four fully armed Brimob officers exited the vehicle which then caused Wantik to panic and run away. The Brimob officers then fired in his direction, hitting him three times on his left leg. He received seven stitches as a result of his bullet wounds. He was reportedly tightly guarded by police officers while seeking medical treatment at Wamena Hospital. As a result, he felt intimidated and left the hospital after two days without seeking further advice from doctors. While intelligence officers had visited him in hospital to reportedly interview him regarding the incident, there have been no further investigations into the incident.

Memorial service interrupted because of Morning Star decoration

Papuan news site Majalah Selangkah reported that on 5 September, Timika District police interrupted a church memorial service for Dr John Otto Ondawame in Timika and demanded that banners with the images of the Morning Star flag to be taken down. Police forbade people from taking photographs of the incident. Following this, police monitored the memorial service from outside the church. Dr Ondawame hailed from Timika and was the vice-chairman of the West Papua National Coalition for Liberation (WPNCL).

Calls for investigations into murder of Martinus Yohame remain unheeded by Indonesian authorities

Demands from the Papuan branch of the National Human Rights Comission (Komisi Hak Asasi Manusia, Komnas HAM) and Amnesty International calling on Indonesian authorities to seek justice for the murder of KNPB Sorong leader Martinus Yohame have so far gone unheeded. Indonesian police stated that the absence of an autopsy has made investigations into Yohame’s death difficult. However, an initial hospital report found that Yohame suffered from heavy beatings on his face, stab wounds and gunshot wounds, clearly indicating foul play.

Yohame’s family had rejected a request for an autopsy to be performed. KNPB Chairman Agus Kossay told Jubi that this was because Yohame’s family did not trust that police investigations would be effective. Kossay cited past cases of murders of Papuan activists such as Mako Tabuni, Hubertus Mabel, Yesa Mirin and Terijoli Weya, where police investigations yielded no results and no one was held to account. Papuan human rights network Solidarity for Victims of Human Rights Violations in Papua (Solidaritas Korban Pelanggaran Hak Asasi Manusia, SKP-HAM Papua) has called on the UN Special Rapporteurs on Torture and Extrajudicial Executions to visit Papua to conduct thorough investigations into the murder of Martinus Yohame.

News

KNPB leader and ex-political prisoner Victor Yeimo calls on Papuan police to stop criminalising activists

Ex-political prisoner and KNPB leader Victor Yeimo has called on the Head of the Papua National police (Kepala Kepolisian Daerah, Kapolda) to stop criminalising human rights activists by removing them from the list of people wanted  by the police (Daftar Pencarian Orang, DPO). Yeimo cites Simeon Dabi, a KNPB leader in Wamena, as an example of an activist listed in the DPO despite him not being involved in any criminal cases.

September 2014 Papuan political prisoners

* Apolos Sewa, Yohanis Goram Gaman, Amandus Mirino and Samuel Klasjok are currently facing charges of conspiracy to commit treason. Even though they were bailed a day after their arrest, they are currently undergoing investigation and are vulnerable to re-arrest. They are currently obliged to report to the police twice a week.

Papuans Behind Bars aims to provide accurate and transparent data, published in English and Indonesian, to facilitate direct support for prisoners and promote wider debate and campaigning in support of free expression in West Papua.

Papuans Behind Bars is a collective effort initiated by Papuan civil society groups working together as the Civil Society Coalition to Uphold Law and Human Rights in Papua. It is a grassroots initiative and represents a broad collaboration between lawyers, human rights groups, adat groups, activists, journalists and individuals in West Papua, as well as Jakarta-based NGOs and international solidarity groups.

Questions, comments and corrections are welcomed, and you can write to us at info@papuansbehindbars.org

In brief

At the end of August 2013, there were at least 55 political prisoners in Papuan jails. There were scores of arrests this month that reflected police attempts to hinder peaceful demonstrations across Papua. All those arrested during the month of August werereleased from detention, most of them without charge. However in Sorong, four community leaders have been conditionally released from detention and charged with treason and incitement. In Wamena, two witnesses to a police murder were detained and released.

Daniel Gobay and Matan Klembiap of the Depapre case, as well as the six activists in the Abepura ammunitions case have been released. There have been reported concerns regarding the investigations into the Biak 1 May case and the Aimas 1 May trial. Indonesian security forces raided a Papuan Indigenous Council office and a church in Paniai. Filep Karma’s health condition worsened as he was once again denied adequate medical treatment.

Arrests

Four community leaders arrested following press statement in support of Freedom Flotilla

On 28 August 2013, at around 18:00 Papuan time, Sorong Regional police arrested four community leaders in the Old Maranatha Church, Sorong City. Apolos Sewa, Head of the Regional Indigenous Council (Dewan Adat Daerah, DAD), Yohanis Goram Gaman, Coordinator of DAD, Amandus Mirino and Samuel Klasjok were arrested after a prayer session and statement to the press in solidarity with a ‘Freedom Flotilla’ that is sailing from Australia to West Papua to highlight the human rights situation in West Papua.

According to reports from a local activist as stated in Tabloid Jubi, the prayer session and press statement were received enthusiastically by the local people who were in attendance. In support of the press statement – which welcomed the Freedom Flotilla – the Morning Star flag along with other aboriginal flags were unfurled. Shortly after, the four leaders were arrested and taken to Sorong Regional police station for questioning.

Information received from another local source stated that the four were conditionally released from detention after being interrogated overnight. The four activists were required to submit a statement to the police agreeing to cooperate with police investigators, to attend court proceedings and to report to the police twice a week. The Alliance for Democracy for Papua (Aliansi Demokrasi untuk Papua, ALDP) stated that on 2 September, the four men reported to Sorong Regional police station for the first time since their release on 29 August. ALDP also reported that human rights lawyers will coordinate with Sorong police to organise access for the four men to legal accompaniment. Reports in the Papuan press state they have been charged with treason and incitement under Articles 106 and 110 of the Indonesian Criminal Code.

Arrests and intimidation of civilians and activists participating in Papuan Cultural Parade

According to reports from local human rights sources, Indonesian security forces attempted to hinder demonstrations taking place as part of a Papuan Cultural Parade on 15 August 2013 in numerous cities in Papua. The Cultural Parade was held to commemorate the New York Agreement of 1962, which resulted in West Papua being handed over to Indonesia, and in support of the opening a Free West Papua Campaign office in the Netherlands.

Waena

A report received by email from a local activist in Jayapura, stated that four KNPB (Komite Nasional Papua Barat) activists Agus Kosai, Toni Kobak, Wim Rocky Medlama and 13 other unnamed KNPB members were arrested on 14 August while preparing for the Cultural Parade. The activists had planned to parade from the Jayapura suburb of Waena to the grave of Papuan leader Theys Hiyo Eluay in the suburb of Sentani on 15 August but were arrested by Jayapura Regional police. After being interrogated for several hours, they were released but police seized items to be used at the Cultural Parade, including banners, a generator, microphones and megaphones. An article by Papuan news site Warta Papua Barat reported that in Jayapura, approximately 800 security personnel were deployed to contain a Cultural Parade march from Jayapura to Waena. In the article, a local human rights activist has criticised this action, stating that the heavy police presence was excessive for a peaceful demonstration.

In Waena, hundreds of civilians were reportedly ‘kettled’ by armed police at Terminal Abe-Sentani. According to an activist interviewed in the abovementioned report, four police trucks, one armoured tear gas vehicle and one tank were deployed to contain the Cultural Parade.

Wamena

The same report received from local activists stated that in the highland town of Wamena, airport police confiscated five banners sent from Jayapura for the Cultural Parade on 15 August. When KNPB activists asked the authorities for an explanation, they were allegedly told that the banners carried illegal messages of separatism and that this would ‘interrupt’ Indonesian Independence Day on 17 August. An Indonesian military unit, a district military command personnel and a Brimob police special forces unit allegedly occupied the space where the activists intended to parade, hindering their ability to assemble.

Fak-Fak

Another report received from the Papuan Indigenous Council (Dewan Adat Papua, DAP) illustrated heavy police tactics in Fak-Fak leading up to the Cultural Parade celebrations on 15 August. On 8 August, Fak-Fak Regional police brought a convoy of vehicles to Sakartemin village and issued a statement banning the public from carrying out the Parade. On 10 August, police confiscated a bag belonging to civilian Firmansyah Iribaram at Fak-Fak port, as it had the Morning Star flag printed on it. When asked for an explanation, police allegedly stated that they had the right to confiscate the bag. On 12 August, the Head of Fak-Fak Regional police Dr. M. Yusuh led a convoy of police vehicles to Kramonggea district where they issued a similar statement banning any actions celebrating the Cultural Parade.

On 13 August, nine KNPB members were arrested by Fak-Fak Regional police in Brongkendik village in Central Fak-Fak district. Local activists reported that the nine activists – Arnoldus Kocu, Lahamis Weripang (the Head of KNPB Fak-Fak), Daniel Kaninggal, Susana Kramandodon, Tobias Hegemur, Salimin Renwarin, Alex Hindon, Matias Bahamba and Yahya Bahamba – were arrested by fully armed police. Human rights organisation Elsham Papua reported that the nine men were released a few hours later after being interrogated.

The same report by DAP also stated that on 13 August, Fak-Fak Regional police claimed that they were not able to provide Indigenous Solidarity Action for Human Rights and Democracy (Solidaritas Aksi Kaum Pribumi untuk HAM dan Demokrasi, SKPHD) with an official receipt of the group’s notice of intention to carry out the Cultural Parade on 15 August. On 14 August at around 13:30 Papuan time, a joint military and National police task force conducted mass arrests in several villages in the central region of Fak-Fak. Approximately 150 civilians were arrested, including the elderly, women and children, and taken to Fak-Fak Regional Police station. Upon hearing of the mass arrests, three of the coordinators of the Cultural Parade, Roy Mury, Samuel Rohrohmana and Dany Hegumur headed to the police station to secure their release. The three activists were detained and interrogated for several hours before being released. The three activists negotiated the release of the 150 civilians, who were then released after spending three hours in detention.

The report also highlights an incident at Fak-Fak Regional police station in which the women detained were allegedly forced to remove their clothing down to their underwear in a strip search. This was reportedly conducted by two female police officers in the female restrooms. A 16-year old girl who gave a testimony of the account to the Institute for Research, Investigation and Development of Legal Aid in Manokwari (LP3BH) said that she was instructed to enter the restroom where one of the policewomen undressed her while interrogating her on her reasons for going into the town centre. A press statement from LP3BH strongly condemned the actions of the two policewomen, arguing that they were in violation of Article 5 and Article 32 of Law 8/1981 of the Criminal Procedural Code  and violated the principle of the presumption of innocence. Fak-Fak Regional police later issued an apology to the women.

On 15 August, demonstrators joining the Cultural Parade from Teluk Patipi district were stopped by police at around 09:30 Papuan time and brought to the Fak-Fak Regional police station. One of the coordinators of the Cultural Parade secured a guarantee from the police of their quick release after interrogation. During the Parade, Indonesian security forces intercepted and searched different groups headed towards Thumburuni Market carpark in Fak-Fak, the gathering place for the Parade. The report also stated that there were allegedly instances of civilians being threatened that they would be shot if they took part in the Parade. A man named Yosua was allegedly severely beaten and as a result suffered rectal bleeding. Motorists and pedestrians alike were stopped and searched throughout the day, reportedly without the use of search warrants.

Timika and Nabire

Local activists report that there were also police attempts to disperse the Cultural Parade in Timika, but the Parade proceeded peacefully. There were similar reports of peaceful activity at the Cultural Parade in Nabire.

Journalist severely beaten in Paniai

According to sources from Aliansi Jurnalis Independen (AJI) Jayapura as reported by ALDP, on 15 August 2013 at around 16:20 Papuan time, Andreas Badii, a journalist with Papuan news site Bintang Papua was stopped on his motorbike and severely beaten by three Paniai Regional police officers. According to the Asian Human Rights Commission, Badii suffered from a torn lip and bloody nose as a result of the beatings and was taken to the East Paniai Sub-District Police Station some 500 metres from the scene. He was released after 30 minutes.

It is unclear whether the ill-treatment and arbitrary detention were inflicted due to Badii’s work as a journalist, or as part of general indiscriminate arrests and harassment of civilians in Paniai, which are not uncommon. Papuans Behind Bars has recorded 13 arbitrary arrests of civilians in Paniai this year, all of whom were later released without charge.

Witnesses to police murder detained in Wamena

A report received from a local human rights activist stated that on 8 August 2013, at around 10:30 Papuan time, two eyewitnesses to a police murder – ‘AW’ and ‘BK’ –  were arrested by Jayawijaya Regional police in Wamena. Brigadier Police officer Lusman Lua had allegedly fired two warning shots when an argument broke out between himself and Irwan Wenda, a civilian. AW and BK appealed to Lua not to shoot Wenda as he suffered from a mental illness. The report alleged that Lua reacted by shooting Wenda in the leg, stomach, head and left arm, killing him on the spot. The fatal shooting took place in the presence of four other Jayawijaya Regional police officers and the two eyewitnesses.

The five police officers then reportedly beat the two eyewitnesses without cause and brought them to the Jayawijaya Regional police station for interrogation. AHRC reported that the two were subjected to ill-treatment. With appeals from their family, they were released from detention several hours later. It is not known whether Lua has been charged or if any action has been taken against him.

Releases

Daniel Gobay and Matan Klembiap released

According to local sources, two activists detained since 15 February 2013 initially in connection with inquiries into the wherabouts of two pro-independence activists have been released. In August, Daniel Gobay and Matan Klembiap were sentenced to 6 months 15 days and 6 months 10 days respectively minus time already spent in detention for incitement and possession of weapons. Klembiap was released on 25 August 2013 while Gobay was released five days later on 30 August. Both men were tortured on arrest and in detention. The family of Matan Klembiap has also been the target of an alleged assassination attempt.

Six activists in Abepura ammunitions case released

Information received from a local source has reported the release of Denny Immanuel Hisage, Anike Kogoyo (female), Jhon Pekey, Rendy Wetapo, Jimmy Wea and Oliken Giay from Abepura prison in August 2013. The six activists were sentenced to ten months imprisonment under Emergency Law 12/1951 and Article 55 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. As reported in the July Update, in an interview with a local source, Hisage claimed that bullets were planted in his accommodation in order to fabricate evidence against them.

Political trials and cases overview

Prosecution of six 1 May Biak detainees

Newly received information from local human rights workers has clarified the identities of the six men detained in the Biak flag-raising case. They are known to be Oktovianus Warnares, Yoseph Arwakon, Yohanes Boseren, Markus Sawias, George Syors Simyapen and Jantje Wamaer.

On 1 May 2013, the six activists were arrested after police opened fire into a crowd of 50 people gathered for a flag-raising ceremony to commemorate the 1 May anniversary marking of the administrative transfer of West Papua to Indonesia. The six faced charges of treason and possession of weapons under Article 106, 53, 55 and 56 of the Indonesian Criminal Code and Article 1 of the Emergency Law 12/1951.

Local activists alleged that during the investigation, police attempted to plant incriminating evidence consisting of 49 bullets and three cartons of home-made bombs on the accused. On 2 July, the case was transferred to the Public Prosecutor only to be returned to police investigation on 10 July, reportedly due to the investigation report being incomplete and not yet receiving the status of ‘P.21’ , which indicates the completion of an investigation. Information received from local human rights lawyers states that on 29 August, the case was successfully transferred to the Prosecutor. Lawyers from the Legal Aid Institute (Lembaga Bantuan Hukum, LBH)in Jayapura have expressed willingness to represent the six  after their families submitted an appeal for legal aid. However, financial difficulties hinder their ability to provide legal accompaniment to the six activists, most of whom are farmers and cannot pay costs.

Unreliable witnesses presented in Aimas 1 May case

A report from online Papuan news site Tabloid Jubi stated that the trial for the Aimas 1 May case (see May Update) has begun. On 26 August 2013, witness examinations were conducted at the Sorong District Court. Three witnesses were presented by the Public Prosecutor. The report stated that only one out of the three witnesses, Mesak Takoy, had some knowledge of the incident that took place on 30 April commemorating 1 May, where seven people – Isak Klaibin, Klemens Kodimko, Obeth Kamesrar, Antonius Safuf, Obaja Kamesrar, Yordan Magabloi and Hengky Mangamis – were arrested and charged with treason under Articles 106, 108 and 110 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. According to LP3BH sources quoted in the report, Takoy had been Isak Klaibin’s neighbour for some time, but that he had no awareness of Klaibin’s alleged political activities and had no knowledge of nor had ever met the six other defendants.

Defence lawyers have objected to the Public Prosecutor’s submission of the two other witnesses – the head of Aimas District government and the head of the government National Unity office (Kesbang) in Manokwari – as they argued that the two individuals had not been present at the time of the incident on 30 April 2013. Defence lawyers also questioned the issue of a flag-raising pole, mentioned in the Investigation Report and Prosecution Letter, used as evidence against the seven activists. They argued that there was no such object present during the incident. Witness testimony is expected to continue in September.

Timika 1 May case transferred to Prosecutor

A local human rights lawyer has reported that the Timika 1 May flag raising case (see May Update) has been transferred to the Public Prosecutor. Another human rights source has stated that the five men – Domi Mom, Alfisu Wamang, Musa Elas, Eminus Waker and Yacob Onawame – are currently detained in Timika prison and that they are still without legal representation. The same source has also reported that the five men have been severely tortured and intimidated by police in detention.  As reported in our July Update, three of the men – Musa Elas, Yacob Onawame and Alfisu Wamang – have been suffering from deteriorating health. Their families have requested Mimika Regional police officials to provide them with adequate medical treatment at a hospital but no progress has been reported as yet.

Appeal to be submitted for Yapen Indigenous Day Celebrations case

Human rights lawyers have reported that they will be submitting an appeal against the sentencing of Edison Kendi and Yan Piet Maniamboi to two years’ and 18-months’ imprisonment respectively. The two men are no longer detained due to having already spent the maximum amount of time allowed in detention prior to the post-appeal verdict.

Yogor Telenggen accused of being involved in Pirime 2012 shootings

Information received via email from a local human rights source has revealed that Yogor Telenggen, who was previously reported as being involved in the 2012 shootings in Puncak Jaya against the Indonesian military, has now been accused of involvement in the Pirime, Jayawijaya case of 2012 and in the shooting of a motorist in Mulia Airport. It is thought that Telenggen is without legal representation, but this has not been confirmed. He has been in detention in Papua Provincial police station since 10 March 2013.

Verdict delivered for Atis Rambo Wenda

Recently received information from local sources reported that Atis Rambo Wenda, who was arrested on 4 April 2013 in Waena and was charged with violent crime under Article 170 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, was sentenced on 20 July to 10 months’ imprisonment. In the June Update, Papuans Behind Bars reported on the fears Wenda has of potential abuse he may suffer at the hands of Abepura authorities, leading him to decline much-needed medical treatment.

Appeal submitted for Bastian Mansoben

On 29 August 2013, human rights lawyers for Bastian Mansoben submitted an appeal against his sentence of 3 years and 6 months’ imprisonment, previously erroneously reported as 3 years’ imprisonment in the June Update. Mansoben was tortured on arrest by Biak police and beaten severely in detention.

Sarmi arrests trial continues to be postponed

A witness hearing on 28 August at the trial of Alex Makabori (alias Isak Demetouw), Daniel Norotouw, Niko Sasomar and Sileman Teno was postponed. Human rights lawyers have stated that the witness hearings have been postponed several times. This is reportedly due to the Public Prosecutor not being able to obtain witnesses. The Prosecutor has allegedly stated that military personnel who were witnesses have been transferred to Merauke, while civilian witnesses were not able to attend because they lived far away.

Cases of concern

Indigenous council members intimidated and threatened in large police operation in West Sentani

Information received from two local human rights sources report that on 12 August 2013, the office of the Papuan Indigenous Council (Dewan Adat Papua, DAP), which is also the residence of political prisoner Forkorus Yaboisembut, was raided in a police operation supported by the military. Reports received state that the DAP office, based in Sabron Yaru village in West Sentani district, was encircled by around 100 armed security officers arriving on 20 patrol motorcycles, two trucks from the Jayapura Regional police and one truck from the Batallion 751 Sentani division of the military. A report received from one of the local sources stated that at the time, the office was occupied only by one member of the organisation’s security outfit, National Papuan police and two DAP members, who were threatened with being shot if they did not remain seated and quiet.

The head of the Jayapura Regional Police, Roicke Harry Langi, who led the operation reportedly stated that their intention was to demand that DAP’s security organisationNational Papuan police no longer wear their custom-made uniforms. The security forces allegedly also stated that they were instructed by the head of Police and Commander of the Indonesian military to take immediate action against those who do not comply with the new rule. The National Papuan police are not considered to be an officially sanctioned institution by the Indonesian authorities.

Filep Karma’s health condition worsens, denied medical treatment again

A report received from the Jayapura branch of the Office for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation of Franciscans of Papua (SKPKC Jayapura) has revealed new concerns for  the health of Filep Karma, who has been diagnosed with heart disease by the medical team in Abepura prison. The medical team has advised special treatment at a public government hospital in Jayapura. Despite this the Head of Abepura prison has reportedly ignored three referral letters made by the Abepura prison medical team requesting Karma be given the treatment he requires.

Security forces raid Paniai church in search for weapons

Papuan news site Majalah Selangkah reported a joint police and military task force raid on the St Maria Magdalena Catholic Church in Pugodide region in Paniai regency on 4 August 2013. According to information Majalah Selangkah received from a local activist based in Paniai, the raid was conducted in the search for weapons allegedly owned by a group of suspected militants in Pugodide region.

A chronology of events as described by the local Paniai source stated that on 1 August, the Pugodide community received news regarding a distribution of livestock for 10 clans from three villages. Jonatan Bunai Gedeutopaa, a military official in Jayapura had requested that the Pugodide community gather in the compound of the St Maria Magdalena Church on 4 August for the livestock to be divided amongst them before the start of Sunday mass. While the distribution was being carried out, 15 Indonesian military officers arrived in three vehicles and proceeded to conduct searches on the community members, including women, children and the elderly, reportedly in search of weapons they say they believed were owned by suspected militants.

The security forces also reportedly forcibly entered the church, damaging the front door. The military officers ransacked the church, searched the area around the church and climbed onto the roof in their search for weapons.  The report also stated that Jonatan Bunai, and another military official Matias Bunai, who helped facilitate the livestock distribution, were not involved in the raid. No weapons were found. Security forces seized a total of IDR 16 million from the church and several handphones belonging to the community and brought the seized items to Paniai Regional police station in Madi. As reported in previous updates, the Indonesian military has often  harassed and intimidated civilians in Paniai in sweeping operations where personal items are seized without warrants. 

News

Governor Enembe visits political prisoners in Abepura

Political prisoner Selpius Bobii has issued a statement in reply to a recent visit by Lukas Enembe, the Governor of Papua, to Abepura Prison on 17 August 2013. The statement reiterates the rejection of offers of clemency on the part of the political prisoners in Abepura (which would require an admission of guilt), and highlights some of the conversations between Enembe and Filep Karma, Victor Yeimo and Selpius Bobii. In response to the Governor’s visit to his cell block, Bobii told the Governor that as political prisoners they reject clemency, and that the Papuan nation was ready to negotiate with Indonesia and reject Special Autonomy Plus. Enembe had reportedly told the prisoners to leave the pro-independence movement and work towards achieving freedom through prosperity.

August 2013 Papuan political prisoners

Papuans Behind Bars aims to provide accurate and transparent data, published in English and Indonesian, to facilitate direct support for prisoners and promote wider debate and campaigning in support of free expression in West Papua.

Papuans Behind Bars is a collective project initiated by Papuan civil society groups working together as the Civil Society Coalition to Uphold Law and Human Rights in Papua. It is a grassroots initiative and represents a broad collaboration between lawyers, human rights groups, adat groups, activists, journalists and individuals in West Papua, as well as Jakarta-based NGOs and international solidarity groups.

Questions, comments and corrections are welcomed, and you can write to us at info@papuansbehindbars.org

In brief

At the end of June 2014, there were at least 76 political prisoners in Papuan jails.

The West Papua National Committee (Komite Nasional Papua Barat, KNPB), a Papuan pro-independence activist organisation, was heavily targeted by Indonesian security forces this month. There were at least 24 arrests of KNPB members across Papua in Boven Digoel, Timika and Merauke. Police performed a mass arrest of 20 KNPB members in Boven Digoel under the auspices of the Social Organisations Law (RUU Organisasi Kemasyarakatan, RUU Ormas), claiming that the KNPB was an illegal organisation as it was not registered with the Department of National Unity and Politics (Kesatuan Bangsa dan Politik, Kesbangpol). The police also stated that any KNPB attributes such as flags and symbols were thus also considered illegal. The use of the Ormas Law to de-legitimise and control indigenous civil society groups, especially ahead of planned demonstrations or commemorative events, continues to place unacceptable limitations on freedom of assembly and expression in Papua.

The timing of crackdowns on KNPB members this month suggests that Indonesian authorities used arrests and raids to prevent activists holding events commemorating 1 July, a date Papuans consider to be their national day. There was also an election-related political arrest, following a common pattern during election periods in Papua, where pro-independence activists call for election boycotts, and are subsequently arrested. This month in Merauke, police arrested one activist and surrounded the KNPB Secretariat, claiming that the activists planned a socialisation event to boycott the 2014 Indonesian Presidential elections on 9 July 2014. Papuans Behind Bars has documented similar arrests in Bokondini in 2004 and in Nabire in 2009.

Meanwhile in the Netherlands, Iskandar Bwefar, a Dutch Papuan, was arrested in the Hague for peacefully waving a Morning Star flag during a procession celebrating Dutch Veterans Day. Dutch civil society groups reported that the flag, a symbol of Papuan identity, was banned from the parade procession by the Dutch House of Representatives following pressure from the Indonesian authorities. This arrest echoes that of three Papua New Guinea nationals in December 2013 when the Morning Star flag was raised during an event in Port Moresby. The willingness of foreign governments to legitimise the criminalisation of the Morning Star symbol, in contravention of international law and reports and opinions issued by the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, is of particular concern. At a broad level, this development indicates that Indonesia is becoming increasingly pro-active in its efforts to quash support for Papuan independence among exile communities.

Arrests

Twenty KNPB members arrested in Boven Digoel police raid

According to local activists, on 28 June 2014, 20 activists from the West Papua National Committee (Komite Nasional Papua Barat, KNPB) were arrested at their Secretariat in Boven Digoel. Around 50 Boven Digoel Regional police reportedly searched the KNPB Secretariat and damaged items such as pro-independence posters and KNPB flags. Police also confiscated several items including five handphones, a digital camera, KNPB flags, banners and money from the Secretariat, all of which were not returned. The 20 activists have since been released.

On 30 June, Natalis Guyop, the Head of KNPB Boven Digoel, along with other KNPB members visited the Boven Digoel Regional police station to demand an explanation for the police raid. The Head of Boven Digoel Regional police, Iswan Tato, reportedly told the activists that police raided the Secretariat because of an incident when the KNPB flag was raised in front of the Secretariat. He further explained that this was in accordance with national regulations stating that any organisations not registered with the Department of National Unity and Politics (Kesatuan Bangsa dan Politik, Kesbangpol) were considered illegal and therefore any of their attributes such as flags were also banned. The regulation in question is set out in the Social Organisations Law (RUU Organisasi Kemasyarakatan, RUU Ormas). Tato allegedly went on to threaten the activists, stating that police would forcibly disperse any KNPB activities and shoot to kill or arrest any KNPB activists. The KNPB in Boven Digoel has stated that they expect continued police surveillance.

Two detained in Yahukimo due to dissenting political beliefs

A report received from a local human rights investigator detailed recent arbitrary arrests of three men in Yahukimo, two of whom remain behind bars. On 21 May 2014, a group of around 30 Yahukimo regional police stopped and questioned human rights activist Lendeng Omu regarding his affiliations with the KNPB. He was severely beaten, kicked and struck with rifle butts before being arrested and detained in Yahukimo Regional police station. Upon hearing of this incident, local villagers reacted by burning down a police post on Halabok Road in Yahukimo.

The report alleges that on 4 June, without any credible basis, the Head of the Yali tribe in Yahukimo, Alapia Yalak, was arrested for this act of arson. According to eyewitnesses who were present at the time of his arrest, Yalak and another unnamed young man were arrested at around 22:30 Papua time in Yalak’s home in Yahukimo. Yalak and a group of friends were playing cards when around 20 members of a joint military and police task force forcibly entered his home, while around 30 security personnel surrounded Yalak’s home. The security forces were reported to have arrived in 16 vehicles and had released seven warning shots to intimidate the men. Yalak was dragged outside his home while the rest of the people present were threatened at gunpoint and forced to raise their hands in surrender. One of his friends, a young man who was asleep in the kitchen, had heard the commotion in the front room where the security forces entered, and attempted to escape through the back door. He was caught by police who were guarding the back of the house and subsequently arrested. He was released a few hours later.

According to this young man’s account, Yalak and he suffered cruel and degrading treatment at the hands of the security forces on their way to Yahukimo Regional police station. The two men were severely beaten and intimidated. On reaching the police station, police then reportedly forced the two men to remove all their clothes, whereupon 30 police officers allegedly took turns beating them. They were then made to crawl naked into the holding cell.

The next day, a group of local villagers demonstrated in front of Yahukimo Regional police station, demanding for the immediate release of Yalak and Omu. Yalak was transferred to Papua Police Headquarters (Polisi Daerah Papua, Polda) in Jayapura to undergo further investigation.

Information provided in the report strongly suggests that Yalak was arrested due to his political beliefs and support for Papuan independence. In 2009, as the Head of the Yali tribe in Yahukimo, he was invited to attend a meeting organised by the Indigenous People’s Body (Lembaga Masyarakat Adat, LMA), at which tribal leaders from around Papua discussed the issue of Special Autonomy with government officials. According to an account by Yalak, as elaborated in the report, tribal leaders were allegedly offered bribes by government officials in exchange for convincing their respective tribes to support Special Autonomy. Yalak was allegedly offered a bribe of IDR 50,000,000 or USD 4,200 by Yahukimo Regent Ones Pahabol. Pahabol has faced repeated accusations of corruption, most recently for embezzling state funds meant for university students in 2013. The tribal leaders were reportedly told, “If you say you want independence, you will not receive any money. If you support Special Autonomy, you will receive money.” Yalak reportedly responded that he refused to be cheated and bribed like his ancestors were in the 60s, and that his community wanted independence instead.

It remains unclear what charges Yalak and Omu face and whether they have any legal representation.

Three KNPB Timika activists detained overnight

Local human rights sources reported the arrest of three KNPB activists on 30 June 2014 in Timika. The three activists – Elon Airabun, Leo Wusei and Joni Korwa – were arrested during their night shift guarding the KNPB Timika secretariat. Activists report that no reason was provided for their arrest, although local sources report that the likely purpose of the arrests was to intimidate KNPB members into not holding events the following day celebrating 1 July, a date widely considered by Papuans to be their national day. The three men were released without charge the following day.

KNPB Merauke activist detained, Secretariat surrounded

Local activists reported that on 18 June 2014, police and Brimob officers surrounded the KNPB Secretariat in Merauke, questioning and turning away activists who attempted to enter the building. Simon Apay, an activist with KNPB Merauke was arrested and interrogated in Merauke Regional police station for half an hour before being released. According to local sources, the Head of the Regional Police Intelligence in Merauke stated that police surrounded the Secretariat as they had received information regarding a socialisation event organised by the KNPB and the People’s Local Parliament (Parlemen Rakyat Daerah, PRD) regarding a boycott of the 2014 Indonesian Presidential Elections. Local activists denied the planning of such an event.

Last month two KNPB activists, Ferdinandus Blagaize and Selestinus Blagaize, were arrested for possession of a referendum-related document and books on Papuan history that were intended for a socialisation event in their home village of Okaba. The two men remain in detention in Okaba District police station and the charges they face are unknown.

Releases

Ferdinand Pakage released

Information received from local human rights sources reported the release of Ferdinand Pakage from Abepura prison on 16 June. On 16 March 2006, Pakage was arrested under accusations of involvement in an anti-Freeport demonstration that led to clashes with the police, resulting in the death of one police officer. A total of 23 people were charged in relation to this incident, with Pakage and Luis Gedi receiving the most serious charges. Pakage was forced to confess to involvement in the incident under torture in detention, even though he was not involved in the demonstration.  He was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment after an unfair trial where judges considered statements made under torture and defendants were forced to testify against one another. Defendants were threatened and beaten by Brimob members if they rejected indictments. As a result of severe beating by prison guards in Abepura prison in 2008, Pakage lost eyesight in his right eye, and continues to suffer pain and headaches. Repeated attempts by local NGOs to secure access for medical treatment have been unsuccessful throughout the last six years.

August Kraar released

According to information from a local human rights investigator, on 21 June 2014, August Kraar was released from Abepura prison. He was arrested alongside Dominikus Surabut, Forkorus Yaboisembut, Edison Waromi and Gat Wenda during the Third Papuan Peoples’ Congress on 19 October 2011. Selpius Bobii, the Chairman of the Congress, later surrendered to the police. Kraar was charged under Articles 106 and 110 for conspiracy to commit treason and Article 160 for public incitement to commit violence against the authorities. The Congress was attended by more than 4,000 Papuans and was a peaceful event at which the Morning Star flag was raised. It was heavily surrounded by 2,200 members of the Indonesian military and Brimob, on foot and in tanks. The remaining five detainees are expected to be released in late July.

Samuel Womsiwor released

Human rights lawyers have reported the release of Samuel Womsiwor three weeks after his detention on 15 May 2014. His release was secured by Cenderawasih University (Universitas Cenderawasih, UNCEN) authorities, who had pushed for his arrest in the first place. Womsiwor is part of a critical student collective who has been targeted for arrest, harassment and intimidation in the past several months.

Political trials and cases overview

Student demonstrator sentenced to six months’ imprisonment

On 11 June 2014, Kristianus Delgion Madai was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment by the Jayapura District Court under Emergency Law 12/1951 for reportedly smuggling eight 8.4mm calibre bullets from Jakarta to Nabire. Human rights lawyers have previously voiced their concern regarding his detention, stating that Madai had been targeted by the authorities as he was active in student demonstrations in Jakarta concerning Papuan issues. He is expected to be released at the end of July or in early August.

Deber Enumby still not given legal representation

A local human rights source reported that Deber Enumby, who was arrested in Kurilik village in Puncak Jaya on 4 January 2014 and is currently detained in Papua Police Headquarters, is still without legal representation. He was arrested following the theft of eight firearms from the Kurilik police post by suspected members of the National Liberation Army / Free Papua Movement (Tentara Pembebasan Nasional, TPN / Organisasi Papua Merdeka, OPM). He was charged with Emergency Law 12/1951 and potentially faces the death penalty, according to Papua police.

Trial for 11 men detained in 26 November arrests delayed

Information from human rights lawyers representing the 11 detainees arrested on 26 November 2013, reported that their trial has been fraught with delays. The men are charged with violence against property and persons under Article 170 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. They were accused of taking part in a demonstration on the day of their arrest which resulted in clashes with security forces. However, they state that they were in no way involved in the demonstrations. There have been no hearings for almost two months, and the legal limit of their detention ends on 30 July 2014.

Cases of concern

Dutch Papuan arrested for carrying Morning Star flag in Netherlands

On 28 June, Iskandar Bwefar, a Dutch Papuan, was arrested in the Hague, Netherlands, for waving a Morning Star flag during a parade commemorating Dutch Veterans Day. According to an interview with Bwefar on the Dutch news site Omroep West, he was pushed to the ground by five police officers within seconds of waving the Morning Star flag while observing the parade. When he tried to protest, a police officer stuffed his mouth with the flag. Bwefar was detained for several hours before being released. He was officially charged with breaching public order and fined €100.

A few days before Dutch Veterans Day, the Dutch House of Representatives agreed that Morning Star flags were not to be carried in the procession and could only be carried outside of the procession and on the Malieveld, the field where the procession took place. A Dutch NGO reported that there are strong indications that the ban was a result of Indonesian pressure. Similar arrests took place on 1 December 2013, where three Papua New Guineans were arrested in Port Moresby for their involvement in a Morning Star flag-raising ceremony. Governor Powes Parkop had told the Guardian Australia that the three men were targeted “due to undue pressure from the Indonesian government.”

News

Deterioration of freedom of expression in Papua highlighted at UN Human Rights Council

Franciscans International, the International Coalition for Papua (ICP), TAPOL, the Asian Legal Resource Centre, Pro Papua Foundation, Vivat International and the West Papua Netzwerk highlighted the deterioration of freedom of expression in Papua during the 26^th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. On 11 June 2014, the coalition delivered an oral statement at the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Special Rapporteur on Peaceful Assembly and Association, revealing data showing that political arrests had doubled and reported cases of torture and ill-treatment had quadrupled in 2013 compared to the previous year. On 12 June, a side event was held discussing freedom of expression in West Papua. Panellists spoke on media freedom, torture, political prisoners and the lack of free access to Papua.

Note regarding removal of three detainees from the list of political prisoners

In our last update, we removed three detainees – Yahya Bonay, Astro Kaaba and Hans Arrongear – from the list of political prisoners. Papuans Behind Bars has been unable to obtain any information regarding the three men for more than a year and it is possible that they have been released. However, we will continue to report on their case should any new information come to light.

June 2014 Papuan political prisoners

* Apolos Sewa, Yohanis Goram Gaman, Amandus Mirino and Samuel Klasjok are currently facing charges of conspiracy to commit treason. Even though they were bailed a day after their arrest, they are currently undergoing investigation and are vulnerable to re-arrest. They are currently obliged to report to the police twice a week.

Papuans Behind Bars aims to provide accurate and transparent data, published in English and Indonesian, to facilitate direct support for prisoners and promote wider debate and campaigning in support of free expression in West Papua.

Papuans Behind Bars is a collective effort initiated by Papuan civil society groups working together as the Civil Society Coalition to Uphold Law and Human Rights in Papua. It is a grassroots initiative and represents a broad collaboration between lawyers, human rights groups, adat groups, activists, journalists and individuals in West Papua, as well as Jakarta-based NGOs and international solidarity groups.

Questions, comments and corrections are welcomed, and you can write to us at info@papuansbehindbars.org