Cartenz Task Force Arrests Two Armed Group Members over Yahukimo Civilian’s Murder

The Damai Cartenz 2026 task force has arrested two members of an armed criminal group (KKB) who attacked and killed a 46-year-old civilian identified by the initial A in Dekai, Yahukimo.

The task force’s public relations chief, Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, said the suspects were AD, also known as YH, and EH. They were detained by officers on Seradala Road in Yahukimo on Tuesday morning (13 October).

Yusuf said officers faced resistance from the two suspects at the scene and were forced to use firearms.

“As the suspects resisted when they were about to be arrested, we subdued both of them through firm and measured action,” he said in a written statement on Tuesday (13 October).

Yusuf explained that EH died at the scene and was immediately handed over to the family. AD, also known as YH, was taken to Dekai Regional Hospital for medical treatment before further questioning.

He said both men were confirmed to be affiliated with the Yahukimo KKB group, Kodap XVI’s Yamue Battalion, led by Kopitua Heluka.

Yusuf said the investigation confirmed that both were involved in the killing of A, 46, on Sunday (11 October).

Investigators found that the victim was attacked while unloading groceries from a lorry in the Ruko Blok B area of Dekai. He suffered a stab wound to his upper back and died.

Yusuf added that EH was also wanted in connection with the killings of Yonathan Arruan and Asri Obet on 30 April 2023, on Jalan Statistik in Dekai, Yahukimo.

“AD, also known as YH, is suspected of involvement in the killing of a gold panner named Saharuddin in the Kali Momo area on 5 April 2025,” he said.

Yusuf said officers also detained four other people, in addition to the two wanted suspects: T.W., 38; E.H., 21; B.H., 17; and P.G., 21.

“We are currently investigating the respective roles of these four people and whether they are connected to the acts of violence that have taken place in Yahukimo Regency,” he said.

During the operation, officers seized 12 arrows, 15 bamboo poles, four machetes, a slingshot, a necklace bearing the Morning Star design, a knife, a noken bag and five rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition.

“The evidence has been secured for further investigation and inquiry,” he concluded.