Stay Safe in Papua

The Free Papua Movement (Organisasi Papua Merdeka or OPM) continues to terrorise the people in Papua and West Papua. Despite their low level insurgency, their violent method of action has caused the people live in fear.

The OPM has also kidnapped Western hostages on two occasions, although their targets are mining company employees and Indonesian security personnel, not tourists. Travel permits (surat jalan) are required for travel beyond the major cities; they can be obtained at Jayapura and Biak. Some parts are off-limits to all visitors and journalists of any stripe are not welcome. In addition, large saltwater crocodiles can be encountered in all low-lying waterways and beaches.

source: wikitravel