SENTANI, JAYAPURA (October 30, 2019) - The Ministry of Social Affairs is assessing refugees due to the conflict in Wamena, Jayawijaya. Before being discharged, their number and purpose will be recorded.

"The Ministry of Social Affairs is assessing and collecting data on those who will return to Wamena so that their numbers and destinations are known in Wamena", said Director of Social Protection for Social Disaster Victims, M. Syafii Nasution in Jayapura (30/10).

The data, Syafii continued, we need it as a basis for conducting an assessment regarding their needs when they arrived in Wamena.

In front of 128 refugees who will be returned to Wamena, Syafii gave motivation and enthusiasm for them to return and build Wamena City.

"Wamena is waiting for the return of all of you to rebuild Wamena, moreover the children's school exams will be held soon. Thus, give my regards for relatives, and friends to rebuild Wamena", he said.

The Ministry of Social Affairs, in accordance with the Indonesian Air Force, sent 128 people from Jayapura to Wamena on Wednesday (10/30). Air Platform Commander (Danlanud) Silas Papare, First Marshal Tri Bowo directly led the ceremony to release the refugees to Wamena.

"We sent 128 refugees consisting of 97 adults and 31 children back to Wamena using TNI Hercules this morning", said Danlanud.

The Jayawijaya Regional Government continues to invite refugees in various regions to be willing to return to Wamena because the conditions are safe.

"Now, Wamena is already safe and conducive. Activities of the community have returned to be normal, mama has been selling at the market. Now, it's time for Wamena to rise," said Head of Jayawijaya Social Service, Daulay Seregar at Wamena Air Base when welcoming the refugee arrivals.

It is planned to depart 230 more people from a total of 380 people who have been recorded by the Ministry of Social Affairs' team.

Grieving Money for Heirs

Previously, on October 28, 2019, the Director of Social Protection for Social Disaster Victims gave condolence money to eight heirs of victims of Wamena social riots for Orang Asli Papua (OAP).

Total aid given is Rp. 120,000,000 which was received directly by the Jayawijaya Regent, Jhon R. Manua accompanied by the Deputy Regent, Marthin Yogobi and the Temporary Secretary, Tunggul.

Each heir will receive Rp. 15,000,000 which will be directly handed over by the Jayawijaya Regent step by step to the heirs. The Ministry of Social Affairs cannot directly give condolence money to the heirs to the OAP due to the need for a special approach from the Jayawijaya Regional Government.

Giving money to the heirs is a part of the death compensation that has been given by the Ministry of Social Affairs to 33 people died during the Wamena social riots.