Each province in Indonesia has its police unit. One of them is the West Papua Regional Police. Even though it is a new force, national security remains a priority.
West Papua’s Formation
West Papua is one of Indonesia’s provinces due to regional expansion. Its initial name was West Irian Jaya which was later changed to West Papua Province. Thus, the state apparatus must also be fulfilled.
One of them is the formation of a West Papua Regional Police Force in the province. This unit is the executor of the duties of the Indonesian National Police for the West Papua region.
Thus, the tasks and authorities also remain subject to centralized rules. One of them is the appointment of the West Papua Regional Police Commander, which the Indonesian National Police also carry out.
Security Issues in West Papua
Since the beginning of its formation, this province has left many dark records in history. One of them is a large number of security issues in West Papua. It is also the focus of the police to handle it.
1. Illegal Miners
One of the problems in this province is illegal miners. Everyone knows Papua and West Papua as provinces that have abundant natural resources. However, the community considers that there is injustice in terms of its management.
This problem then triggers the emergence of many illegal miners, especially gold. The Masni District in Manokwari is one of the places where illegal miners in West Papua has emerged.
On the one hand, the government and the Regional Police must enforce the rules. But at the same time, the community will definitely react if the mine is closed. Moreover, the mine is a source of livelihood for the West Papuan people.
Concerning these illegal miners, the central government, through the DPRD, expects the West Papua Regional Police Commander to deal decisively with them. This task is undoubtedly one of the challenging tasks of the police.
West Papua is one of the conservation areas. Thus, it should not become a place for illegal mining, damaging the environment.
2.Drugs and Alcohol
The second problem that is also often troubling the public is drugs and alcohol. But, again, this is a problem of order in West Papua, considering that these two things are classified as illegal goods.
However, it is noted that there are many drug and alcohol trafficking in West Papua which are still not monitored and resolved. The rampant circulation of liquor can be one of the triggers for conflict in the community.
Manokwari is also listed as a district that is highlighted in terms of alcohol circulation. This city has been nicknamed the City of the Bible. So everything should be controlled and returned according to the teachings of goodness.
Furthermore, the central government also asked for strict action if there are police officers who protect drug and alcohol dealers. This action will undoubtedly damage the dignity of the police as protectors of the community in a positive sense.
3. Apparatus and Civil Conflict
Many media broadcast the armed conflict in West Papua. The battle occurred between the army, the police and civilians. Of course, this is a very critical security issue.
Several observers gave various opinions regarding the cause of the armed conflict in West Papua. One of them even leads to the history of the integration of Papua into Indonesia in 1969.
In addition, discrimination and marginalization of the Papuan people, which continues to increase, are also other causes. Moreover, infrastructure development in Papua in terms of health, education and economy is considered uneven.
Experts agree on this condition as the cause of conflict in Papua, one of which is the armed conflict in West Papua. The central government, together with the West Papua Regional Police, also continue to make efforts to improve security.
All parties hope that the West Papua Regional Police will provide a sense of security to the community. Not only for West Papua but also for the unity of the Republic of Indonesia.
