Indonesian military says 10 Papua insurgents rejoin Republic

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Ten active members of the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) have surrendered and pledged allegiance to Indonesia, Joint Regional Defense Command III chief Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto said.

Lucky said the former members of the separatist group were formally received during a ceremony at the Military Regional Command XVIII/Kasuari headquarters in West Papua on Thursday.

He said the group decided to surrender after becoming disillusioned with alleged violence committed against local civilians by the organization.

According to Lucky, the former members described incidents including intimidation, seizure of residents' property, agricultural produce, and livestock, as well as alleged assaults and killings targeting people refusing to support the movement.

Lucky said the former fighters also cited the Indonesian military's humanitarian approach toward local communities as a factor influencing their decision.

He said military task forces under Joint Regional Defense Command III prioritize community engagement and development programs, including direct assistance to residents across Papua.

"Those efforts have touched the hearts of supporters and active TPNPB-OPM members, fostering sympathy and empathy," Lucky said.

Lucky expressed hope that more members of the separatist movement would follow the same path and rejoin Indonesian society.

He said broader reconciliation would support President Prabowo Subianto's accelerated development agenda for Papua and contribute to greater stability in the region.

"I invite our brothers and sisters in Papua's forests, mountains, and valleys to return and join the Republic of Indonesia," Lucky said.

Related news: Indonesia's TNI reclaims Central Papua's sub-district from insurgents

Related news: Security personnel continue to persuade Papuan insurgents: police

Related news: No amnesty for armed insurgents for now: minister

Translator: Walda M, Rahmad Nasution

Editor: Azis Kurmala

Copyright © ANTARA 2026