78 Students Secured by Jayapura Police While Attempting to Join Protest Against MBG Program

SENTANI, KOMPAS.com – Jayapura Police secured around 78 students suspected of intending to join a demonstration by the West Papua Student Solidarity (SPWP) opposing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program on Tuesday (15/9/2026).

The students were humanely secured at several locations, including the Pos 7 Sentani area and BTN Matoa Sentani. They were then taken to the Sentani City Police Sector for data recording and guidance.

Jayapura Police Chief, AKBP Dionisius V.D.P. Helan, emphasized that the operation was not an arrest. He also assured that no violence was used against the students.

“There were no arrests or beatings. We peacefully secured the students to the Sentani City Police Sector. We gave them drinks and contacted their teachers to pick them up at the police station,” Dionisius stressed.

He explained that the measure was taken to maintain security while ensuring the students did not skip school during class hours.

“This is school time, learning time for the children. We want to prevent them from being infiltrated by groups seeking to disrupt the security and public order in Jayapura Regency,” he added.

Upon arrival at the Sentani City Police Sector, the students were registered according to their respective schools.

Authorities also took a persuasive and humane approach before directing the students to return to their homes.

During the operation, police secured several banners and pamphlets containing messages rejecting the MBG program and demands for free education.

The Police Chief said they would coordinate with the schools to determine the appropriate guidance steps for the students involved.

“The most important thing is that these children continue their education and are not exploited by certain parties for interests that could disturb security and public order,” he concluded.