Indonesian Military Engages Armed Criminal Group in Nabire, Secures Weapons and Ammunition

A firefight between TNI soldiers and the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) or Free Papua Organisation (OPM) occurred in Nabire, Central Papua, on Saturday (21/3). According to a TNI Information Centre press release, the clash took place in Topo Village, Nabire. “The TNI Papua Operational Command (Koops) security patrol team successfully repelled and drove back the TPNPB-OPM armed group during the firefight in Topo Village, Nabire Regency, Central Papua, on Saturday (21/3/2026),” the release stated. During the securing of the location, the apparatus managed to seize several pieces of evidence, including firearms and ammunition. The details include one P1-type pistol, one air rifle, fourteen rounds of 5.56 millimetre calibre ammunition, eight rounds of 9 millimetre calibre ammunition, a Morning Star flag, cash, and other equipment believed to belong to the group. This evidence was subsequently secured for further investigation purposes. The security patrol operation conducted by TNI soldiers began with the discovery of suspicious activities at the location suspected to be a hideout for the armed group. During the sweep, the firefight broke out. The press release then reported that the OPM group fled towards the forest. The situation on the ground was brought under control without causing further escalation. “This success is concrete proof of TNI’s commitment to maintaining security stability in Papua and protecting the community from various threats, with measured actions in accordance with procedures,” said the Head of Information for TNI Papua Koops, Lieutenant Colonel Infantry M Wirya Arthadiguna. TNI reaffirmed its commitment to continue increasing the intensity of security patrols and strengthening preventive measures in areas prone to disturbances. This is done to create a conducive situation and guarantee community security, while also supporting the acceleration of development in Central Papua.