Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.  The Damai Cartenz Task Force is ramping up operations in Papua by blending law enforcement with culturally sensitive engagement to confront armed criminal groups (KKB) and political criminal groups (KKP).

“The KKB use firearms and intimidation, while the KKP pose long-term threats through digital propaganda, intellectual agitation, and cadre-building that undermine national unity,” said Brigadier General Faizal Ramadani, the Task Force Commander, during a briefing on Friday (18/7/2025).

He named the West Papua National Committee (KNPB) and United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) as key international lobbyists, while groups like the Papuan Student Alliance (AMP) mobilize domestically.

In response, the task force prosecutes key actors but applies persuasive, humanist approaches toward tribal sympathizers.

“Many are driven by clan obligations, not ideology. Our strategy respects that cultural context,” Chief Faizal added, as quoted by antaranews.com

Despite progress, challenges persist, including digital disinformation and regulatory gaps. he urged cross-sector collaboration to stabilize the region through education, infrastructure, and indigenous empowerment.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)