Victor Yeimo

Treason trial of West Papua's Victor Yeimo begins, calls for his release persist

Yeimo, who is a spokesman for the pro-independence West Papua National Committee (KNPB), is charged with treason and incitement over his alleged role in anti-racism protests that turned into riots in 2019.

Amnesty International Indonesia's Usman Hami said Yeimo was a peaceful pro-independence activist who had not committed a crime.

Indonesia urged to release detained Papuan activist

The West Papua National Committee spokesman was arrested earlier this month over his alleged role in widespread anti-racism protests in 2019.

Yeimo is facing 11 charges, including treason, arson, and incitement.

A statement by police related to his arrest also referred Yeimo's appearance and representations at the UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva in March 2019.