Dekai, Papua Highlands – The Peace Operation Cartenz 2026 Task Force, in collaboration with the Yahukimo Regional Police, carried out a law enforcement operation against an armed criminal group member identified as AP alias Y alias AS, who served as the Operations Commander of the Heluk, Seng, Sulo, Baliem, and Indol River Battalion (HSSBI) under Kodap XVI Yahukimo. The operation took place on Logpon Road KM 7, Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Highlands, on Wednesday (June 17, 2026).
AP had been listed as a wanted fugitive (DPO) and was suspected of involvement in a number of armed violence incidents in Yahukimo Regency. Based on Police Report Number LP/B/28/IV/2026/SPK/POLRES YAHUKIMO/POLDA PAPUA, he was allegedly involved in the shooting of Alexander Angket and Naldy Magosa on April 28, 2026. In the incident, Alexander sustained a gunshot wound to his right shoulder, while Naldy suffered a gunshot wound to his left thigh. Both victims received medical treatment and survived.
AP was also suspected of involvement in the shooting of Suhardin in the Ruko Block A area of Dekai on April 30, 2026, as recorded in Police Report Number LP/B/29/IV/2026/SPKT/POLRES YAHUKIMO/POLDA PAPUA. In that incident, a projectile struck the speedometer of the victim’s motorcycle, causing no casualties.
The Head of Public Relation of the Peace Operation Cartenz 2026 Task Force, Chief Commissioner of Police Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., explained that prior to the operation against the target, a joint team conducted a search of a house believed to be a base and temporary shelter for HSSBI Kodap XVI Yahukimo members. The house was located behind Metanoia Church in Dekai.
“During the search, officers secured one 5.56 mm round of ammunition, several bladed weapons, bows and arrows, mobile phones, and various items suspected to be linked to the activities of the armed group. In addition, officers detained a man identified as HS (28) for further questioning regarding the group’s network and activities,” said Chief Commissioner of Police Yusuf Sutejo to the media on Thursday (June 18).
Based on initial questioning, HS admitted to storing ammunition allegedly belonging to an HSSBI member identified as AK. This information is currently being used to further develop the investigation and uncover the network of the armed group operating in Yahukimo.
Furthermore, Chief Commissioner of Police Yusuf Sutejo stated that after conducting the search and gathering intelligence, the joint team obtained information regarding AP’s whereabouts in the Pos Kilo 6 area of Dekai District. During surveillance, the target was observed traveling on a motorcycle along Logpon Road.
“When officers attempted to stop the motorcycle, AP ignored the order, abandoned his vehicle, and fled into a forested area. Officers subsequently pursued him and fired two warning shots in accordance with established procedures,” he explained.
However, the target continued attempting to escape, prompting officers to take firm and measured action in accordance with police procedures. AP was declared dead during the operation and was later evacuated to Dekai Regional General Hospital for further processing.
From the operation site, officers seized five rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition, one silver Infinix 50 Pro mobile phone, and one motorcycle used by the target.
The Head of Peace Operation Cartenz 2026, Inspector General of Police Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., emphasized that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to enforce the law against perpetrators of armed violence who threaten public safety.
“This operation reflects our commitment to enforcing the law against individuals responsible for violent crimes that disrupt public security in Papua. Security forces will continue to act professionally, proportionally, and in accordance with legal procedures to maintain stability and protect the community from armed criminal activities,” said Inspector General of Police Dr. Faizal Ramadhani.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Head of Peace Operation Cartenz 2026, Chief Commissioner of Police Adarma Sinaga, S.I.K., M.Hum., urged the public to remain calm and avoid being influenced by unverified information.
“We encourage all members of the community to help maintain a conducive security situation and to trust the law enforcement process being carried out by the authorities. Public support and cooperation are essential in creating lasting security and peace in Papua,” said Chief Commissioner of Police Adarma Sinaga.
The Peace Operation Cartenz 2026 Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out professional, measured, and lawful law enforcement actions against armed violence perpetrators who threaten public safety and security stability in the Papua Highlands.
Investigators will continue to develop the case based on the evidence and information obtained in order to identify any additional parties involved and map the network of armed groups still active in the region.
The public is also encouraged to actively support efforts to maintain security and public order and not to be influenced by unverified information. Peace Operation Cartenz 2026 emphasized that, while prioritizing law enforcement, security forces remain committed to a human-centered approach and the protection of civilians in every operation conducted in the field.
