Gunfire rang out from a separatist group in the conflict‑ridden Papua region of Indonesia.

Authorities reportedly heard at least four gunshots emanating from the direction of the old terminal at Bilorai Sugapa Airport in Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, on Wednesday, July 23.

Footage shows locals and emergency responders squatting low as gunfire echoed in the background around 11:32 am.

Officials stated the attack was carried out by the West Papua National Liberation Army – Free Papua Organisation (TPNPB‑OPM) while police officers were securing the airport area.

Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, Head of the Cartenz Peace Operation, said: 'It is strongly suspected that this shooting was a form of revenge for the death of Enos Tipagau in Baitapa Village, Sugapa District, Intan Jaya. Enos is a known KKB leader and was killed on July 5.

'Besides revenge, this action is also suspected to be an attempt by the armed criminal group to disrupt security and stability ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia on August 17 in Intan Jaya Regency.'

Several flights departing from Mimika and Nabire Regencies were suspended following the incident.

No casualties were reported, but authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity.

Senior Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, Head of the Cartenz Peace Operations Public Relations Task Force, added: 'We urge everyone to remain vigilant and immediately report any doubtful movement to security forces so that preventative measures can be taken to maintain a safe and peaceful public order situation.'

The Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) is the armed wing of the Free Papua Organisation (OPM), a separatist group that seeks independence for the Papua region of Indonesia. The group has been involved in a long-running insurgency against the Indonesian government, demanding self-determination for the indigenous Papuan people. Their fight is fueled by grievances over human rights abuses and a lack of political autonomy in the region.