Mimika – The joint team of the Law Enforcement and Intelligence Task Forces of Operation Peace Cartenz-2025 successfully apprehended Yekis Wanimbo, also known as Salahmakan Tabuni, a fugitive member of the Armed Criminal Group (KKB). The arrest occurred on Tuesday (June 10, 2025) at 2:35 PM local time in Mimika, Central Papua.
According to Brigadier General Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., Head of Operation Peace Cartenz, Salahmakan Tabuni was involved in the 2021 arson attack on PT. Unggul’s facilities in Puncak Regency. “This arrest demonstrates Polri’s strong commitment to upholding the law and maintaining stability in Papua,” said Brigadier General Faizal.
Salahmakan was identified as part of the KKB faction led by Numbuk Telenggen. Along with his accomplices, Beniku Tabuni and Alenus Tabuni, he reportedly set fire to PT. Unggul’s camp in Mundidok Village using gasoline and a lighter.
During the operation, authorities confiscated several pieces of evidence, including:
- 1 Pindad-made revolver firearm.
- A bag bearing the Morning Star emblem.
- A photo of the late Nanditer Waker (Village Head of Walani).
- Cash in denominations of IDR 100,000, IDR 10,000, and coins.
- A bank account book registered under the suspect’s name.
- 2 packages of gold from mining activities.
- 2 mobile phones (Nokia and Vivo).
- A wallet containing personal documents.
- These items will serve as supporting evidence in the legal proceedings against the suspect.
Before his arrest, Salahmakan reportedly attempted to escape to Mimika, altering his appearance to avoid identification. Intelligence reports indicated that he planned to meet someone named Yoyakim Mujizau, who is also under investigation.
In his initial testimony, Salahmakan admitted his involvement in the arson attack but claimed he only followed orders without directly starting the fire. He also revealed that gold mined from the Kuluk River was used to fund KKB activities, including purchasing firearms.
Kombes Pol. Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., Head of Public Relations for Operation Peace Cartenz, emphasized that Polri prioritizes a persuasive approach in law enforcement operations. However, decisive action remains necessary when officers face threats.
“We urge the public to continue supporting our efforts and not be influenced by armed group propaganda,” said Kombes Yusuf.
Investigators are currently delving deeper into Salahmakan Tabuni’s role in the arms distribution network and KKB funding. Further investigations will seek to uncover more details regarding the activities of the group led by Numbuk Telenggen and other individuals involved.
This success underscores the importance of cooperation between security forces and the public to achieve a safe and peaceful Papua.
