TNI Commander to take office in Papua

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander Marshall Hadi Tjahjanto has decided to set up his office in Papua for an indefinite period. "It depends on the developing situation in Papua," the TNI Commander said in Jakarta Monday.

Setting up his office in Papua will facilitate the TNI Commander to take quick decisions.

Regarding the involvement of foreigners in Papua, the TNI Commander revealed that the State Intelligence Agency has a better understanding of the issue.

Nearly 6,000 joint military and police personnel were deployed to secure the easternmost Indonesian provinces.

They were spread out over several areas including Jayapura, Nabire, Paniai, Deiyai, Manokwari, Sorong and Fakfak.

The Sorong Immigration Office in West Papua Province had deported four Australians, who were allegedly involved in a rally in front of the Sorong Municipal Office, the Directorate General of Immigration confirmed earlier.

"Four Australian nationals have indeed been deported for allegedly joining the rally," Chief of the Public Relations Bureau of the Directorate General of Immigration Sam Fernando stated in a brief text message released Monday.

The rally was organized to demand Papuan independence, he stated.

The four Australians were identified as Baxter Tom (37), Davidson Cheryl Melinda (36), Hellyer Danielle Joy (31), and Cobbold Ruth Irene (25).

"The four Australian nationals were deported today from the Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong City," he noted. (INE)

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