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The Star
3 days ago
- The Star
Rights group calls for probe into alleged extrajudicial killing in Papua
JAKARTA: Amid reports of increased military activity in Nduga regency, Highland Papua, following the release of a New Zealand pilot from rebel captivity, rights groups said that Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel have committed an extrajudicial killing of a Papuan civilian, an accusation the military has denied. On Friday (June 13), the Papua Justice and Welfare Foundation (YKKMP), supported by a coalition of civil society organisations including Amnesty International Indonesia, reported the alleged killing of 27-year-old Abral Wandikbo to the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). YKKMP head Theo Yegerem previously told The Jakarta Post that Abral was a resident of Waredobobem village in Mebarok district, Nduga. Nduga was a regency where New Zealand pilot Phillip Mertens was kept for 19 months in captivity by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement (OPM), before his release in September last year. According to YKKMP's investigation and testimony from a Waredobobem resident, Abral spent his days caring for his ailing father and had no known ties to any separatist groups. He was arrested by the TNI on March 22 and taken to a military base for questioning on suspicion of links to the TPNPB. After his arrest, Abral's family and several villagers visited the military base to assert his innocence. A soldier reportedly showed them two photos and a video from Facebook in an apparent attempt to link Abral to separatist movements. The soldier reportedly said Abral would be interrogated and released the next day. But when the villagers returned on March 23, they were told he had escaped while being transported to Kwit village, also in Mebarok. On March 25, Abral's family began their own search and found his body in a field outside of his village. His hands were tied behind his back with plastic handcuffs. His ears, nose and mouth had been mutilated, and the skin on his forehead was cut off. Theo of YKKMP said Abral's alleged killing came amid the TNI's growing presence in Mebarok. The district previously had no military personnel, but troops began arriving in January. Weeks into their deployment, the military reportedly dismantled several homes and a community health centre (Puskesmas) to extract timber and building materials. Following the Friday meeting with Komnas HAM, Amnesty said Abral's alleged killing constituted a gross human rights violation, citing violations of his right to life, personal safety and access to legal assistance during arrest. 'The government and the TNI must promptly and thoroughly investigate the alleged torture and extrajudicial killing of Abral Wandikbo, as well as the reported destruction of homes and public facilities,' Amnesty said. Meanwhile, Komnas HAM chair Anis Hidayah condemned 'the killing of a civilian by mutilation', saying that the right to life is a fundamental human right that must be respected and protected by the state. 'We will gather data and facts related to the case,' she said on Sunday. The military, in response, has denied allegations of an extrajudicial killing in the case of Abral. TNI spokesperson Brig. Gen. Kristomei Sianturi told the Post on Thursday that Abral, who allegedly also went by the name Almaroko Nirigi, was captured during a 'measured and professional' military operation, based on evidence showing he was an active TPNPB member. Kristomei said that during questioning, Abral had agreed to guide troops to Kwit village, where he claimed two military-issued firearms were hidden. However, while en route, Abral allegedly tried to escape and jumped into a ravine. Soldiers fired warning shots but did not pursue him or verify his condition due to security risks. 'Allegations of human rights violations like this are routinely made by the [TPNPB-OPM] whenever one of its members is shot. Conversely, when they brutally kill civilians, those victims are then claimed to be TNI intelligence agents or spies,' Kristomei said. When asked about the apparent mutilation on Sunday, Kristomei said that 'the TNI would never commit such savagery'. He also denied that the TNI had dismantled homes and the Puskesmas in Mebarok, saying troops had only cleared access to an airstrip for logistics delivery and had instead provided free medical services at the Puskesmas. - The Jakarta Post/ANN
Otago Daily Times
12-06-2025
- Science
- Otago Daily Times
Study reveals ‘rich tapestry' of cultures
Unlocking the first ancient genomes (aDNA) from Papua New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago has allowed Otago scientists to take a significant step forward in understanding the genetic diversity of the nation and those in the wider Pacific. It has helped bring clarity to the great migration of early Pacific pioneers, considered to be ancestors of many Pacific people, including Māori. Monica Tromp. PHOTO: ODT FILES Research co-author and University of Otago Southern Pacific Archaeological Research project manager Dr Monica Tromp said aDNA acted like "a time machine", revealing how people lived and interacted thousands of years ago, and how those connections still influence our world. By combining aDNA with dietary evidence and linguistics, the study revealed how the pre-colonial coastal communities were surprisingly genetically diverse from each other, and suggested many cultural groups did not intermarry for some time. The research revealed "Pacific Island cultures were far more diverse and complex than we ever imagined". "Rather than being one unified group, these ancient communities represented a rich tapestry of different cultures and peoples." New Guinea was settled more than 50,000 years ago, and served as a launch point for seafaring journeys into the wider Pacific. About 3300 years ago, the Lapita people — considered the earliest ancestors of many Pacific people, including Māori — settled in the Bismarck Archipelago, which became the cradle of the Lapita cultural complex. They were renowned for their intricate pottery and horticultural practices, and embarked on voyages that reached as far as Vanuatu, Tonga and Samoa. Rebecca Kinaston. PHOTO: ODT FILES Until now, the genomic legacy of these early Pacific pioneers had remained unexplored. Dr Tromp said one of the study's most striking findings was the presence of individuals with completely Papuan genetic signatures on the island of Watom, in the Bismarck Archipelago, where missionaries found the first Lapita-style pottery in the early 20th century. The individuals excavated on the island were all younger than evidence for the arrival of the Lapita Cultural Complex. "One of these individuals also displayed a rare case of cultural cranial modification, suggesting the co-occupation of the island by genetically and culturally different groups." Co-lead author and BioArch South director Dr Rebecca Kinaston said despite the co-occupation, it seemed the groups did not mix for a long time. The delay in intermarriage and the presence of people with Papuan ancestry might help answer a long-held question about whether the first settlers in the remote islands of Western Remote Oceania arrived unmixed, and mixed on the islands. The new findings supported the scenario. "Their ancestries started diverging 650 years ago, despite the absence of geographical borders."
Time of India
31-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
The Camouflage Python: Papuan Olive snake that changes its colours like chameleons
The Papuan olive python (Apodora papuana) is one of nature's most captivating reptiles, known not only for its sheer size but also for its remarkable ability to change colour. Native to the dense rainforests of New Guinea, this non-venomous snake can shift its skin tone from olive green to shades of yellow or black. This unique, reversible colour change remains a mystery to scientists, though it is thought to be linked to mood, stress, or environmental stimuli. As both a stealthy predator and a biological wonder, the Papuan olive python fascinates researchers and wildlife lovers alike. Papuan Olive snake's physical features and impressive size Reaching lengths of up to 13 feet (4 meters), the Papuan olive python is among the largest snake species in its native range. It has a broad, muscular body designed for constriction and a smooth, shiny skin that aids in camouflage. Its head is noticeably wider than its neck, and its vertical-slit pupils suggest a nocturnal lifestyle. The snake relies on strength rather than venom, wrapping around and suffocating prey with precision and power. Where do Papun Olive snakes live? This elusive python thrives in the humid, densely vegetated rainforests of New Guinea. It blends effortlessly into its surroundings, using its camouflage to hide among leaf litter and low vegetation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like These things are considered normal in Iceland - View listing Novelodge Undo It prefers secluded, moist environments and is often found near water sources or on forest edges. While most commonly located on the mainland, it can also inhabit surrounding islands with similar ecological conditions. What is the diet of Camouflage Python As an ambush predator, the Papuan olive python patiently waits for unsuspecting prey. When an animal comes close, the snake strikes with its powerful jaws and coils around it. Its diet includes a variety of mammals and birds, such as small marsupials, rodents, and ground-dwelling birds. Thanks to its slow metabolism, it can survive for weeks or even months on a single large meal. Unique Trait: The colour-changing mystery Perhaps the most fascinating trait of this species is its ability to change colour. While not as common in snakes as in other reptiles like chameleons, the Papuan olive python's skin can shift between hues, sometimes displaying two tones at once. Scientists believe these changes may indicate stress or emotional responses. This behaviour continues to intrigue biologists who hope to better understand reptilian communication and physiology through further study. Image: Alamy Papuan Olive Python's look alike snake Olive Python Although often confused with the olive python of Australia, the Papuan olive python is a separate species with distinct behavioural and ecological traits. The Australian olive python is more adaptable and often found in rocky or semi-arid environments. Meanwhile, the Papuan species is more secretive and rainforest-dependent, making it harder to study or keep in captivity. These differences highlight the diversity of Australasian pythons. The Papuan olive python stands out as one of New Guinea's most impressive and mysterious predators. Its powerful build, camouflage skills, and rare colour-changing ability make it a subject of endless fascination. As scientists continue to study this remarkable snake, its role in the delicate rainforest ecosystem becomes ever more clear—and more vital to understand and protect.
TimesLIVE
16-05-2025
- Politics
- TimesLIVE
Eighteen separatists killed in Papua region, says Indonesian military
Indonesia's military has killed 18 Papuan separatists during an operation in its easternmost region of Papua, an official said on Thursday, and three civilians also died. The military seized dozens of munitions, including an assault rifle, bows and arrows and an unspecified homemade weapon during Wednesday's operation, military spokesperson Kristomei Sianturi said. The Indonesian military sustained no casualties. A spokesperson for the Papua separatists Sebby Sambom said three of their members had died. Three civilians were killed during the shoot-out between rebels and soldiers, a prominent church group with a chapter in Papua said, citing local church reports. Nearly 1,000 people have been evacuated.
The Star
15-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Indonesian military says 18 separatists killed in operation in Papua region
Military Command (Kodam) I/Bukit Barisan commander Maj. Gen. Rio Firdianto (left) sends off his soldiers who will depart for border security duty in Papua at Belawan Port on April 1, 2025. - Photo: Antara JAKARTA: The Indonesian Military (TNI) has killed 18 Papuan separatists during an operation in its easternmost region of Papua, an official said on Thursday (May 15). The military seized dozens of munitions, including an assault rifle, bows and arrows and an unspecified homemade weapon during Wednesday's operation, TNI spokesperson Kristomei Sianturi said in a statement. It said the Indonesian military sustained no casualties. A spokesperson for the Papua separatists did not immediately respond to requests for comments. Rebels have fought a low-level campaign for independence in the resource-rich Papua region bordering Papua New Guinea ever since the area was controversially brought under Indonesian control following Dutch rule in a vote overseen by the United Nations in 1969. The rebels have previously taken foreigners hostage, including a group of 26 wildlife researchers in 1996 and a New Zealand pilot who was released last year after being held for 19 months. Last month, the rebels said they had killed more than 17 people, saying they were soldiers disguised as gold miners. The Indonesian military has deployed some personnel in the area of Wednesday's operation to "anticipate movements" from the remaining rebels, the statement said. - The Jakarta Post/ANN
