The tragic death of 25-year-old Abner Kareth in Sorong City, Southwest Papua Province, Indonesia, has ignited a wave of protests and public outcry. Allegedly assaulted by members of the Indonesian Army, Kareth's death on February 16, 2025, followed a critical injury inflicted during an incident on February 14, 2025. His critical condition led to his death after being returned to his family.
Hundreds of local residents responded by blocking a major road in the city, paralyzing traffic for hours. Tensions escalated when a group of high-ranking military officials arrived to negotiate but were met with a blockade by the masses demanding clarity and justice.
Leonard Idjie, the family's attorney, emphasized the need for fair and transparent legal proceedings. "This case must be resolved clearly and fairly to achieve justice," Idjie stated, highlighting recurring violence and human rights violations that often remain unresolved.
Colonel Infanteri Syawaludin Abuhasan, representing the military, provided a chronology of the events and affirmed the army's commitment to uphold the law against any soldier found culpable. He acknowledged that the incident was triggered by an assault on a soldier's family, leading to a disproportionate response from the military personnel involved.
The situation deescalated around 8:30 PM local time following negotiations led by West Papua Deputy Police Chief, Police Commissioner, Semmy Ronny Tabhaa, who dispersed the crowd. While acknowledging the public's frustration and anger, Tabhaa noted the negative impact of the road blockade on uninvolved citizens.
In response to the crisis, mediation between the victim’s family and the military was facilitated by the police, incorporating traditional Papuan customary fines alongside legal proceedings against those involved. The legal processes are ongoing, aiming to ensure justice for Kareth's family and the broader Papuan community.
This case has drawn national attention, underscoring the importance of transparency and justice in handling human rights violations by security forces.