Bamsoet Appreciates Success of Marine Ambush Operation Against OPM Group

The operation was conducted as part of the duties of the RI-PNG Border Task Force Mobile Battalion 4 Marines, from July 2025 to April 2026. The operation successfully seized two homemade firearms and 22 rounds of ammunition, while also narrowing the operational space for armed groups in the Papua border region.

“This success demonstrates the professionalism, bravery, and intelligence sharpness of our Marines. This is not merely a military operation, but part of efforts to maintain national sovereignty and protect civilians in Papua,” said Bamsoet in his statement on Tuesday (5/5/2026).

This 15th Chairman of the MPR RI assessed that the success of the ambush operation reflects an increasingly adaptive approach by the TNI, particularly the Marine Corps, in facing the dynamics of armed conflict in Papua.

In recent years, the pattern of security disruptions by armed groups such as the OPM has tended to be sporadic, shifting locations, and exploiting extreme geographical conditions.

Data from various security reports indicate that the intensity of armed disruptions in Papua still occurs, especially in mountainous and border areas that demand tactical and intelligence-based responses.

“Operations like this affirm that the state must not lose to armed groups. Every inch of NKRI territory must remain under state control,” said Bamsoet.

This Deputy General Chairman of Golkar Party stated that the success in seizing weapons and ammunition has a strategic impact in breaking the logistical supply chain of armed groups. In many cases, limitations in weapons and ammunition become a significant factor in weakening the ability of separatist groups to carry out attacks.

Therefore, measured and precise operations are seen as an important step in creating long-term security stability in Papua.

“Every illegal weapon secured means one potential threat to the community has been prevented,” Bamsoet concluded.