Thom Wanggai

Papuan people warned against celebrating independence

Police personnel will not hesitate to arrest any parties who attempt to commemorate the 16th anniversary of the proclamation of the West Melanesian State, a top police officer in Papua warned on Monday. The anniversary celebration falls on Dec. 14. "The anniversary celebration is unlawful and parties who commemorate it will be severely punished," said chief of Papua provincial police Insp. Gen. Dodi Sumatyawan. Dodi issued the statement after attending the inauguration of the speaker and deputy speakers of the Papuan provincial council.