Humanitarian patrols by ODC-2026 task force in armed criminal group-prone areas

Jayapura — The Operasi Damai Cartenz (ODC) 2026 Task Force has a special mission focused on law enforcement against Armed Criminal Groups (KKB) across ten districts in Papua. This task is carried out through humanitarian patrols.

These humanitarian patrols serve to bring ODC personnel closer to the Papua community in areas frequently disrupted by KKB activities. The humanitarian approach is designed to help ODC personnel quickly build rapport with local populations. This approach is intended to make residents feel secure with the presence of security forces.

The ODC task force began operations in 2022, replacing the Newangkawi Task Force. The ODC-2026 task force, comprising National Police personnel, conducts patrols primarily on foot, traversing its operational areas, including Sinak District in Puncak Regency, Central Papua Province.

Sinak District is categorised as a KKB-prone district, one of 25 districts in Puncak Regency. The district has a population of 5,207 residents. The area is only accessible on foot from village to village, or by motorcycle and small aircraft, such as Cessna or PAC aircraft.

Throughout 2025, Sinak District has experienced various armed clashes between TNI-Police and KKB. Armed criminal group attacks and shootings against residents have also been frequent.

Armed criminal groups led by Kalenak Murib and Tenius Kulua burned down a village office and a state primary school building in Kelemame Village and Pasir Putih Village on 3 February 2025. On 2 May 2025, an armed clash occurred between security forces and a KKB group led by Kelagak Telenggen in Tagalame Village, Sinak Barat District, resulting in one security officer being wounded.

Another incident involved an armed clash on 25 June 2025 between the TNI and KKB, resulting in the death of KKB member Wendanus Murib.

Because the area is prone to KKB disturbances, Operasi Damai Cartenz task force personnel carry full firearms when patrolling. This is a precautionary measure to ensure they can respond appropriately if armed disturbances or attacks occur.

As they greet residents encountered along patrol routes, ODC members remain armed.