Downer must act on new West Papuan killings

Downer must act on new West Papuan killings

Greens Senator Kerry Nettle today called on Foreign Minister Alexander Downer to seek an explanation from Indonesia following further revelations of demonstrators being shot and killed by police in West Papua.

Two West Papuans were shot and killed by police and the military three days ago and several others injured as they protested about the arrest of an elected regional leader in the highlands town of Wamena.

Over one hundred people, including women and children were also arrested during the protest where tear gas was used. Arrested West Papuans were beaten with weapons.

"This is further graphic evidence of the violence and brutality in West Papua", Senator Nettle said today, "and further evidence that autonomy in West Papua is not working."

"Foreign Minister Downer must demand that the Indonesia government rein in their police and military in West Papua."

"Is it any wonder people wish to flee West Papua when people are shot and killed for attending a public protest?"

"Minister Downer can not avoid these killings; the photographic evidence is proof of the continuing repression in West Papua."

"We should not be closing the door on West Papua while killings like these continue."

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