Jayapura, Jubi – Seven students from National High School (SMA) 1 Kobakma in Mamberamo Tengah were reportedly shot on Tuesday (May 5, 2026). The Head of the Law and Human Rights Department of Gereja Injili di Indonesia, Rev. Jimmy Koirewoa, said information gathered by his office indicated the students were allegedly shot when personnel from the Mamberamo Tengah Police Resort discharged warning shots during a confrontation with students celebrating their graduation in a convoy parade.

According to Koirewoa, the students’ convoy was stopped by police after some students were seen carrying the Morning Star flag. The police intervention reportedly triggered tensions between officers and the students, leading to a confrontation.

During the incident, police were allegedly involved in repressive actions that resulted in several students suffering gunshot wounds, particularly to their legs.

“The victims are currently receiving medical treatment at Rumah Sakit Lukas Enembe,” Rev. Jimmy Koirewoa said in a written statement received by Jubi on Thursday (May 7, 2026).

The injured students were identified as Sago Pugumis (17), Wajus Pagawak (24), Enius Wanimbo (22), Nita Sibak (20), Abi Yikwa (24), Nius Wandikbo (19), and Yali Elabi (18).

“This incident reflects the excessive use of force in handling a civilian student action. Security forces acted unprofessionally and resorted to gunfire in a highly repressive manner,” he said.

Koirewoa called for an independent, transparent, and accountable investigation into the incident to ensure justice for the victims and prevent similar events from recurring in the future.

Meanwhile, Mamberamo Tengah Police Chief, Adjunct Senior Commissioner (AKBP) Muh. Mukabsi stated that the graduation announcement initially proceeded safely and orderly, with all 67 students of SMA Negeri 1 Kobakma passing.

Following the announcement, students held a convoy around Kobakma town, which later escalated into what police described as a public security disturbance.

“The incident began when the convoy stopped in front of the Mamberamo Tengah Police Headquarters and officers observed the raising of a certain symbol within the crowd,” Mukabsi said.

He stated that police officers on duty attempted a persuasive approach by asking the students to lower the Morning Star flag and urging them to maintain a peaceful situation.

However, according to Mukabsi, the appeals were ignored and the situation escalated into what he described as anarchic actions.

Students allegedly threw stones and pieces of wood at police personnel. Officers then carried out what he described as “measured and firm action,” dispersing the crowd with tear gas and warning shots fired into the air.

“The crowd retreated, but some later returned and attacked officers stationed at the Kobakma Police Post, while also vandalizing and looting several kiosks at the Kobakma Central Market,” he said.

Mukabsi added that the Mamberamo Tengah Police, together with the Indonesian military, immediately secured vulnerable locations and vital facilities to prevent further escalation. Security forces also conducted patrols and reinforced security measures in surrounding areas.

“The situation gradually returned to normal after police coordinated with local government officials, community leaders, and religious leaders,” he said.

Several people, including police personnel, were reportedly injured in the incident. Police vehicles and kiosks at the Kobakma Central Market were also damaged.

“One flag and several other pieces of evidence have been secured for further investigation. We urge the public to remain calm and not be easily provoked. The situation is currently under control and remains under security monitoring,” Mukabsi said. (*)