Indonesian Military Recovers Two Civilians Killed in Suspected Papua Rebel Attack

JAKARTA, July 24 — Indonesian troops recovered the bodies of two civilians killed in a suspected attack by armed separatists in Yahukimo, Papua Highlands, the military said on Friday.

The victims were evacuated from the area around the Trans Papua Highway in Seradala district after troops secured the site, according to the Habema Joint Regional Defense Command (Koops TNI Habema).

The military said the recovery operation was carried out under difficult conditions, citing mountainous terrain, swollen rivers and ongoing security risks. Troops also exchanged fire with what the military identified as fighters from the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) during the mission.

The two bodies were taken to Dekai Regional Hospital for identification before being handed over to their families. A woman from the Unaukam tribe remains missing and is still being searched for by a joint security team, the military said.

Koops TNI Habema also said one suspected TPNPB member was killed during the operation. SuaraNegeri.co.id could not independently verify the claim, and the TPNPB did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Military spokesperson Lt. Col. M. Wirya Arthadiguna said the evacuation underscored the government's efforts to protect civilians affected by violence in the region.

Armed conflict between Indonesian security forces and separatist groups has persisted for decades in Papua, with both sides accusing each other of attacks that have killed civilians and security personnel. Independent verification of incidents is often difficult because of limited access to remote conflict areas. (Jamil)