PAPUA HIGHLANDS, INDONESIA – JULY, 2026 Amateur video allegedly showing a violent attack on a civilian has begun circulating on social media. The footage shows several armed men attacking a man and accusing him of cooperating with the Indonesian military. The men are armed with firearms, bows, and other weapons.
The video emerged amid a long-running conflict between Indonesian security forces and armed separatist groups operating in Papua. The groups are seeking independence for parts of the territory from Indonesia, while the Indonesian government considers Papua an integral part of the country. The conflict dates back to the second half of the 20th century, and armed clashes continue in some areas to this day.
The violence does not affect only members of security forces and armed groups. Civilians can also become victims of attacks, retaliation, or suspicion of cooperating with either side of the conflict.
