Antara News·Indonesia·Friday, August 21, 2026 at 03:09 AM

Indonesia's army in Central Papua calls Jila abductions "inhumane"

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Marselinus N, Rahmad Nasution

Timika, C Papua (ANTARA) - The commander of Indonesia’s 1710/Mimika Military District, Lt. Col. Jozanda, called the abduction of nine women in Jila Subdistrict, Mimika District, Central Papua Province, by an armed group as "inhumane".

Jozanda the armed group’s actions were cruel and violated basic humanitarian principles.

"Forcibly taking the women and shooting their parents when they tried to prevent it is an extremely inhumane act," Jozanda said Timika on Thursday (August 20).

Indonesian military and police personnel are pursuing the armed group involved in the incident.

"I hope the soldiers and police officers deployed there will be given safety and ease in carrying out their duties," he said.

The military is also coordinating with the local government to deliver food supplies to residents in Jila, where shortages have emerged.

"Tomorrow, we will support a helicopter food drop because residents are traumatised and have stopped farming since the incident, reducing their food supplies," he said.

The military and police, together with the local government, will continue supporting residents in the area.

"We remain committed to the community and will not abandon them. We are here for them," Jozanda said.

The nine women, including children and a pregnant teenager, were reportedly abducted by the armed criminals on Monday (August 17).

The victims are identified as Nemerina Wamang, 17, who is newly pregnant; Alin Mesawarol, sixth grade; Nopi Aim, fourth grade; Opinte Meswaro, third grade; Yonita Senawatme, 18; Meria Nibilingame, 15; Wena Katagame, 18; Ilimin Onawame, 18; and Miante Nibilingame, 13.

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