Pegunungan Bintang, Highland Papua — Security conditions in Papua’s highlands were again shaken on Tuesday morning (October 7, 2025) when the Ngalum Kupel armed group set fire to Kiwirok State Junior High School in Sopamikma Village, Kiwirok District, at around 07:45 local time.
Authorities said about 16 individuals were involved in the arson attack. A joint security team from Operation Damai Cartenz, the Border Security Task Force (Yonif RK 753), Prayuda Task Force, BAIS, Rajawali Task Force, and Kiwirok Police immediately deployed to the scene, but the perpetrators had already escaped toward Delpem Village.
To prevent further attacks, security forces strengthened patrols in nearby Mangoldolki Village, where the local elementary school was believed to be at risk.
Brig. Gen. Faizal Ramadhani, Chief of Operation Damai Cartenz, condemned the assault in strong terms.
“Burning a school is an attack on the future of Papua’s children. This is not only a criminal act but also a crime against humanity. We will continue to pursue those responsible and safeguard Kiwirok,” he said.
The Kiwirok school has previously been a target. In 2021, the same building was torched by the armed group, forcing classes to be relocated to SMP Negeri 1 Oksibil in the regency capital.
Deputy Chief of Operation Damai Cartenz, Commissioner Adarma Sinaga, urged residents to remain vigilant but not panic.
“Stay calm, avoid provocation, and report any suspicious activity. Security forces are always present to protect the community,” he stated.
The latest incident underscores the group’s continued attempts to spread fear among civilians. Despite this, authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining stability, protecting residents, and upholding the rule of law in Papua.
