Summary

Papuans Behind Bars noted that during the first quarter of 2024, there were at least 22 cases of arbitrary arrest involving 2 minors and 1 foreigner. These cases included: 4 who were arrested for treason, 12 people subjected to torture or ill-treatment, and 8 arbitrarily detained. 

As of 31 March 2024, 11  of the 22 people had been released, while 10 others were further prosecuted, 1 person died, and 1 person’s status is unknown.

This period also saw the conviction of at least 23 people who were named as suspects last year. Of these, 2 people were acquitted, while the rest were sentenced to 10 months to life imprisonment. Among them, 7 people were convicted of murder, 5 people were convicted of possession of firearms, and 4 people were convicted of treason. The rest were convicted under articles of assault, persecution, and incitement.