Papua!!  CLASH IN NEMANGKAWI MINE PERIMETER: TRADITIONAL MINERS LABELED TERRORISTS, CALLS FOR SOVEREIGNTY REIGNITE

TIMIKA, May 8, 2026,NETTInpo.Com

Conflict erupted again in the perimeter of Mount Nemangkawi, the operational area of PT Freeport Indonesia. Local residents who pan for leftover gold in the area are now being labeled as terrorists by security forces.

"From Traditional Miners to “Suspected Terrorists"  

Indigenous communities have long relied on panning for residual gold around the mine site to make a living. For them, it is a way to find a glimmer of economic hope on their ancestral land.

Since security operations in the national vital object area were tightened, anyone entering the zone has been branded a security threat. The “terrorist” label has sparked anger and a sense of injustice among locals.

"We Sleep on Wealth, But Are Called Thieves” 

Tensions have escalated because the secured area is part of the community’s customary land. Residents argue that the justification of protecting vital national assets is merely a pretext to drive them off their own land.

“We sleep on natural wealth, but are considered thieves and terrorists by the capitalism and militarism of this state,” said one statement circulating among residents.

They stress that the state should protect customary rights, not criminalize people trying to survive on their own land.

Calls to Mobilize and Reclaim Sovereignty 

The clash has reignited calls for West Papuan independence in public discourse. Local activists are urging people to step out of the comfort zone created by capitalism and unite to demand sovereignty.

“You must recognize yourself and your true rights. In reality, you are being colonized, but the state makes it seem like you are not,” one activist said.

They cited the principle of international law: independence is the right of all peoples.

No Official Statement Yet  

As of this report, there has been no official statement from PT Freeport Indonesia, the Indonesian Military, or Police regarding the May 8, 2026 incident at Mount Nemangkawi.

The situation on the ground remains tense. Residents are urging a shift from a security approach to dialogue and recognition of customary rights.

The Nemangkawi conflict is not new. But every clash between residents, the company, and security forces revives the old question: who truly has the right to the land of Papua?

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