PAPUA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesia’sCartenz Peace Task Force (Satgas Damai Cartenz) in Papua is currently investigating the sources of ammunition supplied to the a pro Free Papua Movement (OPM) or Papua pro liberation armed group operating in the Yalimo Regency, Papua Highlands.

Papua Police Chief Inspector General Patrige Renwarin stated that the investigation is linked to the arrest pro OPM Yalimo member, Nikson Matuan, on February 2, 2025. During the arrest, authorities seized two AK-47 rifles and 46 rounds of ammunition.

Nikson Matuan reportedly confessed to receiving ammunition assistance from an unidentified third party. Police Chief Renwarin emphasized that this claim is still under investigation. The confession has raised concerns about potential networks supplying weapons and ammunition to armed groups in the region.

In addition to the weapons seized from Nikson, the task force also confiscated 71 rounds of ammunition from another pro-OPM Yalimo member, Aske Mabel.

Aske, a former police officer, was dismissed from the Indonesian National Police (Polri) on December 27, 2024. He is accused of stealing four AK-47 rifles from the Yalimo Police Station on June 4, 2024, while he was still serving as a police officer.

Aske Mabel was later arrested in his hometown of Abenaho, following a tip-off from local residents. During the arrest, he reportedly resisted, prompting law enforcement to take firm action in accordance with standard operating procedures. At the time of his capture, Aske was found in possession of two firearms.

The arrest of Aske Mabel highlights the critical role of community cooperation in combating armed groups in Papua. Local residents provided crucial information that led to his capture, demonstrating the importance of public support in maintaining security in the region.

The investigation into the ammunition supply chain is part of broader efforts to dismantle pro-OPM Yalimo’s operations. The group has been involved in numerous criminal activities, including armed attacks and theft of police weapons. Authorities are determined to uncover the networks that enable such groups to access firearms and ammunition.

This case also underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in Papua, where armed groups often operate in remote and difficult-to-access areas. The theft of police weapons by a former officer further complicates the situation, raising questions about internal security measures within the police force.

As the investigation continues, the Papua Police have assured the public that they are committed to ensuring accountability and preventing further incidents of weapon theft and illegal arms distribution. The case remains a top priority for law enforcement in the region. (Uki Ruknuddin)

YouTube player