Puncak, – The Police Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2026, in coordination with Puncak District Police, has arrested a 32-year-old man identified by the initials PW, who was on the wanted list in connection with the burning of PT Unggul’s camp facilities in Jenggerpaga Village, Ilaga District, Puncak Regency, Central Papua, on February 11, 2021.
The suspect was arrested at approximately 10:45 a.m. local time on Monday, October 19, 2026, at a hideout in Gome District, Puncak Regency.
Head of Public Relations of the Peace Operation Cartenz 2026, Chief Commissioner of Police Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., explained that the arrest followed further investigations into Police Report No. LP/05/II/2021/Papua/Res Puncak, dated February 13, 2021.
“Investigators had previously arrested three suspects in connection with this case: AT, also known as K, on February 18, 2024; JW, also known as LW, on May 19, 2024; and YW, also known as SM, on June 10, 2025,” Yusuf said while speaking to the media on Monday, October 19.
Further investigations subsequently identified PW as a person suspected of involvement in the burning of PT Unggul’s camp facilities. Authorities issued a wanted notice, No. DPO/8/V/Res.1.3./2024/Reskrim, on May 27, 2024.
Yusuf stated that no fatalities were reported in the incident. However, the fire caused significant material losses, destroying company equipment and facilities, including two excavators, one wheel loader, one track loader, one Bomag compactor, one tractor, three dump trucks, one single-cabin vehicle, and one pickup truck. Employee accommodation buildings, a diesel fuel storage facility, and a generator warehouse were also burned down.
“PW is suspected of being affiliated with the armed criminal group known as KKB, specifically Kodap XVIII, led by Numbuk Telenggen, which operates in Puncak Regency. During the arrest, officers seized several bladed weapons, including an axe and a machete, as well as a mobile phone. PW has been taken to Puncak District Police for questioning,” Yusuf added.
Investigators are currently examining the suspect and the seized evidence to establish his alleged role in the case and determine whether he may be connected to other criminal incidents in Puncak Regency.
PW is suspected of violating Article 308(1) of Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Indonesian Criminal Code, concerning alleged arson that endangers public safety. The provision carries a maximum prison sentence of nine years. Any determination of criminal liability will depend on the investigation and the applicable legal process.
Yusuf emphasized that the operation remains committed to professional, proportionate, and lawful enforcement, while respecting human rights throughout the investigation.
“The handling of this case reflects the commitment of the Police Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2026 to carry out law enforcement professionally, firmly, and proportionately, while upholding legal procedures and respecting the human rights of every individual,” he said.
He also urged the public not to be influenced by unverified information and encouraged residents to help maintain a safe and stable security environment. The police, he added, continue to prioritize a humane approach in protecting and serving the community.
“Police and the community must work together to preserve unity and peace in Papua,” Yusuf concluded.
Head of Peace Operation Cartenz 2026, Inspector General of Police Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., stressed that every case must be handled consistently and in accordance with applicable law.
“Every action taken must be legally accountable, ensuring that law enforcement proceeds transparently and continues to uphold human rights,” Faizal said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Head of Peace Operation Cartenz 2026, Chief Commissioner of Police Adarma Sinaga, S.I.K., M.Hum., highlighted the importance of coordination between task forces and local police units in supporting the investigation.
“Coordination and the exchange of accurate information are essential to supporting operations in the field. We ensure that every development is handled within the relevant authorities and in accordance with established procedures,” Adarma explained.
The Police Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2026 calls on all members of the community to work together to maintain public safety and order, avoid spreading unverified information, and support efforts to build a safer, more peaceful, and stable Papua.
