Coming Home Under the Red and White: Three Ex-OPM Fighters Renounce Separatism, Embrace Peace in Sinak

PAPUA - A moment of hope unfolded in the heart of Papua as three former members of the separatist group Free Papua Movement (OPM) laid down their arms and returned to the fold of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). Under the warm afternoon sun at the Koramil 1717-02/Sinak yard, Amus Tabuni, Amute Tabuni, and Anis Tabuni declared their loyalty to Indonesia not only in words, but with full sincerity of heart. Monday, June 23, 2025.

The solemn oath-taking was attended by approximately 30 individuals, including members of the TNI-Polri, local government representatives, traditional leaders, religious figures, and the families of the returnees. It was more than a ceremony it was a powerful statement of transformation, reconciliation, and the collective dream of peace for Papua.

A Victory of Conscience Over Conflict

Second Lieutenant Hendra delivered a striking reflection during the ceremony:

“When OPM turns its weapons inward, burning homes and killing their own, it’s no longer about struggle it’s about fear. That fear has no place in our land. We are here to open a path home.”

Captain Inf Finsa Wahyu, Deputy Commander of Task Force Yonif 700/WYC, also addressed the crowd:

“What we witness today is not surrender it’s courage. It’s the triumph of hope over hatred. These three men return not as losers, but as visionaries who believe that Papua’s future belongs in peace with Indonesia, not in conflict.”

He emphasized the enduring importance of a humanist approach, dialogue, and presence not intimidation by the security forces.

“Security is not built on bullets. It is built on trust.”

The Oath, the Tears, the Flag

With heads held high and voices steady, the three brothers read their Oath of Loyalty to the Republic of Indonesia. Their emotions ran deep eyes glistened, and hands trembled as they signed the formal pledge to renounce separatism and begin a new life.

Then came the most emotional moment of all: the Red and White Flag Ceremony. One by one, they approached the flag, bowed in reverence, kissed it gently as if asking forgiveness and held it close, symbolizing a heartfelt reunion with the motherland they once left behind.

The silence was profound. Only the sounds of muffled sobs and whispers filled the air. One elderly voice was heard saying, “They’re finally home…”

A Community Reunited

Representing the family, Manus Murib gave a heartfelt speech of gratitude:

“We no longer want to live in fear. We want our children to go to school, to dream freely. With TNI-Polri protecting us, we believe peace is possible.”

He urged for the presence of more TNI-Polri posts in the Yugumuak District to ensure protection from the lingering threats of separatist violence.

The ceremony concluded with a prayer led by Reverend Yas Murib, followed by a unified photo session capturing a powerful message: that peace is not just possible it’s already in motion. TNI, Polri, traditional leaders, religious figures, and families stood side by side, not as separate entities, but as one united front for a peaceful Papua.

Authentication:

Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono