Papuan refugees are being urged to return to their hometowns amid an ongoing armed conflict in the region.

The residents were displaced due to the recent clashes in Puncak Regency, Central Papua Province.

Footage shows affected locals, including children, sitting on the ground and awaiting aid during Governor Meki Nawipa's visit in Gome District on Friday, August 8.

The official also convinced the frightened refugees to return to their villages, assuring that the local authorities would protect them.

Nawipa said: 'Come on, let's go back to our hometown. There's so much to do there, from gardening and raising livestock to having children and living in peace.

'Later, these little children, ladies and gentlemen, will be given to me. I will educate them, and one day they will become great masters of this land. These children will become governors and deputy governors one day and will continue the work done today. I respectfully request that you return to your respective villages. Please cooperate with the local government.'

Local media reported that Sinak District is currently sheltering 3,203 refugees originating from Sinak, West Sinak, Bina Pogoma, and Yugumuak Districts.

The fire, reportedly caused by the recent armed conflict, damaged a total of 107 honai units, traditional Papuan thatched huts, along with 16 houses, two district offices, two village offices, and three classrooms in school buildings.

Gome District is hosting 4,520 refugees from Gome, North Gome, and Omukia.

Puncak Regency has long been affected by conflict stemming from tensions between the Indonesian government and separatist groups seeking independence for West Papua. The remote and rugged terrain, combined with limited government presence and infrastructure, has made the area a hotspot for clashes, leading to violence, displacement, and disruption of local communities.

Armed groups operate in the region, and military operations have further escalated insecurity, forcing many residents to flee their homes.