TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Military (TNI) has denied claims by the armed group West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) that they shot down a TNI helicopter during a recent exchange of fire in Nduga Regency, Papua Highlands, at the end of May 2025.
Head of the TNI Information Center, Major General Kristomei Sianturi, confirmed that thorough checks had been conducted across all TNI units stationed in Papua. He emphatically stated that no TNI helicopter had been brought down as asserted by the TPNPB-OPM.
"We have conducted checks on all TNI units in Papua. Until now, no TNI helicopter has been shot down by the rebels," Kristomei stated in a written statement on Saturday, June 7, 2025.
This official statement was issued in direct response to the TPNPB-OPM's statement on Thursday, June 5, 2025. In their statement, their spokesperson, Sebby Sambom, alleged that they had successfully shot down an Indonesian military helicopter, resulting in damage and its subsequent crash. Sebby further claimed that the helicopter had been evacuated from the combat zone in Nduga using a Russian helicopter on May 31, 2025.
According to Sebby, this attack was reportedly executed by TPNPB Kodap III Ndugama-Derakma forces, under the leadership of Major Perek Jelas Kogeya, as an act of resistance against the TNI's ongoing military operations in Papua. The statement did not provide details regarding the number of casualties or the condition of the helicopter crew.
The TPNPB's press release was also endorsed by several high-ranking officials, including High Commander General Goliath Tabuni and General Operations Commander Major General Lekagak Telenggen. In the same release, the TPNPB reiterated their declaration of nine areas in Papua, including Nduga, as active war zones.
Conversely, Kristomei considered these claims as mere attempts by the OPM to maintain visibility and garner attention from various parties. "This is just propaganda and fake news from the OPM rebels to make themselves appear relevant," he remarked.
Editor's Choice: TPNPB-OPM Claims to Be Defending Themselves When Attacking TNI Officers at Wamena Hospital
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Papua Students in Bali Sent Rotting Pig Heads, Seen as Possible Intimidation
7 jam lalu
Investigation by the Papua Student Alliance reveals digital traces linking the suspected sender to an affiliated organization.
10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Raja Ampat, Indonesia's Last Paradise on Earth
9 jam lalu
From dramatic seascapes to tranquil villages and underwater marvels, Raja Ampat showcases its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Energy Minister Plans Visit Sorong Oil Wells in Papua
1 hari lalu
Indonesian Energy Minister Bahlil mentioned that his visit to West Papua and Southwest Papua is part of establishing rapport with the local community.
MPR on VP Gibran Impeachment Demand: No Meeting Yet
2 hari lalu
The MPR responded to the Forum of Retired Military Soldiers' (FPP TNI) demand on the impeachment of Gibran from the Vice Presidential position.
Papuan Students Deliver 7 Urgent Demands to Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai
3 hari lalu
Papuan students gathered at the Ministry of Human Rights office to urge the Indonesian Government to prosecute human rights violators in Papua.
Greenpeace Activists Detained After Protest Against Nickel Downstreaming
4 hari lalu
Three Greenpeace Indonesia activists and a Papuan woman were taken to the Police Station after protesting the impact of nickel downstreaming.
South Korea Holds Presidential Election After Months of Political Turmoil
4 hari lalu
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife cast their votes at a school near their private residence.
19 Inmates Escape from Papua Prison After Clash with Officers
5 hari lalu
Among the 19 escaped inmates from the Nabire Prison are members of an armed criminal group, or KKB.
TPNPB-OPM Claims to Be Defending Themselves When Attacking TNI Officers at Wamena Hospital
5 hari lalu
The TPNPB-OPM accuses some healthcare workers in several hospitals in Papua of being members of the intelligence.
TPNPB-OPM Admits Hospital Attack Violates International Humanitarian Law
5 hari lalu
The spokesperson claimed that not all TPNPB-OPM militias fully comprehend the rules of war or international humanitarian law.
