Rebels in Indonesia’s Papua region have claimed responsibility for killing more than 17 individuals since the weekend, accusing them of being soldiers disguised as gold miners. The insurgents also stated that they are holding two hostages.

The violent conflict over Papua’s independence has intensified in recent years. This battle, which began after the region was brought under Indonesian control in a controversial 1969 vote supervised by the United Nations, has led to a growing insurgency.

Sebby Sambom, a spokesperson for the Papuan rebels, said in a statement that the rebels killed more than 17 people since April 6, including five on Wednesday, and that these individuals were military members in disguise. He further challenged the Indonesian military, saying, "If the Indonesian government military wants to chase us, please come to Dekai town, we are in the town," referring to the Yahukimo district, where the incident occurred.

Faizal Ramadhani, the chief of Papua’s peace task force, confirmed the attack but noted that police have not yet verified the exact number of casualties, as they are still en route to the area.

Indonesia’s national military denied the rebels’ claim, calling it a hoax. A spokesperson for the military was quoted by the state news agency Antara, asserting that the individuals killed were not soldiers.

Meanwhile, local police reported that 35 people were evacuated from the area to another district, and two residents remain in the hands of the insurgents as hostages.

The insurgents in Papua have recently gained access to more advanced weaponry, largely through raids on military posts or from the black market. In addition to their attacks, they have also abducted foreigners, such as a New Zealand pilot who was held for 19 months before being released last year.

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