Jayapura, Papua, Indonesia – The Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2026, in cooperation with the Sarmi District Police, has arrested a 52-year-old man identified by the initials YK, who is suspected of acting as an intermediary in the distribution of firearms and ammunition to an armed criminal group operating in Papua’s mountainous region.
The arrest took place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at approximately 1:16 p.m. local time at Sarmi Central Market, Papua Province, after law enforcement personnel received intelligence regarding the suspect’s presence in the area.
Speaking on Sunday, Head of Public Relations of Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2026, Chief Commissioner of Police Yusuf Sutejo, confirmed the arrest and stated that the case forms part of an ongoing investigation into a firearms and ammunition supply network allegedly supporting armed groups operating in the Yalimo and Yahukimo regions.
“This case is part of a broader investigation into a network suspected of supplying weapons and ammunition to armed groups in Papua. Law enforcement authorities remain committed to dismantling every component of this illegal supply chain,” he said.
Authorities revealed that since the launch of intensified law enforcement operations in March 2026, investigators have apprehended multiple individuals suspected of playing various roles within the network, including financiers, buyers, ammunition suppliers, and intermediaries involved in facilitating transactions.
According to investigators, YK allegedly received a firearm and ammunition delivered by another suspect, identified only as B, at his residence in the Argapura area of Jayapura City in early March 2026. The weapon and ammunition were subsequently suspected of being transferred to several parties who later conducted transactions with a group allegedly led by Simeon Payage.
Following the operation, a joint law enforcement team secured the suspect and transported him to Sarmi District Police Headquarters for further questioning regarding his alleged involvement in the illegal firearms supply network.
During the arrest, officers seized several items believed to be relevant to the investigation, including mobile phones, identification documents, bank cards, cash in various denominations, and other personal belongings that are currently being examined as evidence.
According to data compiled by the Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2026, investigators have identified at least 12 suspects connected to the firearms and ammunition trafficking case as of early June 2026. Authorities have also confiscated 298 rounds of ammunition, four SS1 rifle magazines, one improvised firearm, and six World War-era firearm barrels that were discovered in rusted condition and without stocks.
The Head of Peace Operation Cartenz 2026, Inspector General of Police Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, stated that the arrest represents part of a sustained effort by security forces to disrupt the illegal distribution of weapons and ammunition that have allegedly supplied armed groups in Papua.
“This disclosure is the result of an intensive and continuous investigation. We are committed to taking firm legal action against all individuals involved, whether as suppliers, intermediaries, financiers, or buyers of illegal firearms and ammunition. These efforts are crucial to cutting off supply chains that may be used to facilitate acts of violence that threaten public safety and security,” Inspector General Faizal Ramadhani said.
He further emphasized that investigators will continue expanding the investigation to identify additional suspects and dismantle broader networks involved in the trafficking of illegal firearms and ammunition.
Meanwhile, Deputy Head of Peace Operation Cartenz 2026, Chief Commissioner of Police Adarma Sinaga, stated that investigators are continuing to examine YK’s role within the network and are tracing communication patterns, distribution routes, and possible links to other individuals suspected of participating in the operation.
“The investigation remains ongoing. Our investigators are examining distribution channels, communication networks, and the involvement of other parties believed to be connected to this case. We will continue pursuing every lead to uncover the full structure of this illegal firearms and ammunition trafficking network,” he said.
Authorities also called on members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting any suspicious activities related to the possession, transportation, or distribution of illegal firearms and ammunition.
The Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2026 reiterated its commitment to strengthening law enforcement efforts against individuals and networks that support armed criminal activities and threaten public security and stability in Papua.
The investigation into suspect YK remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine whether additional individuals were involved in the network and to ensure all responsible parties are brought to justice in accordance with Indonesian law.
