Jakarta. At least 12 activists of pro-independence group the West Papua National Committee, or KNPB, were detained after a rally turned violent in Kampung Bhintuka-SP13 field in Mimika, Timika district, Papua on Tuesday (05/04).

Mimika Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Yustanto said the protest was forcefully dispersed after rally coordinator Steven Itlay gave a speech about Papua independence.

While police and military personnel dispersed protestors, Yustanto was allegedly attacked and beaten by the mob, leaving him with minor bruises to the face.

“They had earlier promised they would not speak about a referendum and such things. But, they did it during the rally,” Yustanto said in Mimika, on Tuesday as reported by Antara news agency.

The 12 protestors were detained at a police’s detention facility in Kuala Kencana for further investigation and questioning.

Yustanto also called on religious figures in the area to avoid politically-driven activities in house of worships, including the movement to seek Papua freedom.

The rally took place at the same time as President Joko Widodo visit West Papua's Manokwari, forcing officials to beef up security parameters across the province.