Indonesian troops seize arms after clash in Central Papua
A joint patrol under the Indonesian Military Operations Command, or Koops TNI, recovered two firearms and 22 rounds of ammunition of various calibers from a house believed to have been used as a base by an armed criminal group (KKB) in the Topo area of Nabire District.
Koops TNI spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Wirya Arthadiguna said the weapons were found after troops engaged in a firefight with suspected members of the group near Topo village on Saturday.
“Before discovering the house later identified as a KKB base, there was an exchange of fire in the Topo area,” Wirya said in a statement issued in Jakarta.
He said troops initially detected suspicious activity at a site believed to be used by the group. As soldiers approached the site, a firefight broke out, prompting the suspects to flee into nearby forested areas.
After securing the area, troops found a house containing firearms, ammunition, a Morning Star flag, and other equipment believed to belong to the group.
“The items seized include a P1 pistol, an air rifle, 14 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition, and eight rounds of 9 mm ammunition,” Wirya said.
The military did not report any casualties and said the situation had been brought under control.
Security forces in Papua frequently conduct patrols in areas considered prone to attacks by armed groups, which the government classifies as criminal separatists.
Wirya said Koops TNI Papua remains committed to intensifying patrols to maintain stability and protect civilians from threats posed by armed groups.
“Koops TNI is committed to maintaining security stability in Papua and protecting the public from threats, particularly from armed groups, through measured actions in line with procedures,” he said.
Authorities have increased operations in recent years as part of broader efforts to contain violence and ensure security in the region. The military said patrols would continue to maintain a conducive environment and prevent further disruptions to public safety.
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Translator: Evarukdijati, Rahmad Nasution