KKB Held Two Women Hostage in Mimika for 20 Days, One Deceased

Police have evacuated two women, identified as Demerina Uamante (alias Nemerina Wamang), 23, and Yosina Stenawatme (alias Yotina Sewatme), 18, after they were held hostage by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Mimika Regency, Central Papua, for 20 days. Yosina was evacuated deceased, while Demerina is currently receiving treatment in hospital.

“Alhamdulillah, today the Damai Cartenz Operation Task Force, together with the Mimika Police and assisted by community leaders in Mimika, has successfully evacuated one survivor named Demerina Uamang,” stated the Head of Public Relations for the Damai Cartenz-2026 Operation, Kombes Yusuf Sutejo, in a statement released on Monday (14/9/2026).

The victims were evacuated in Kampung Bela 1, Alama District, Mimika Regency on Monday (14/9). Police initially received information from the Head of Kampung Bela 1, who reported to the Jila District regarding Demerina’s whereabouts on 7 September 2026.

“Initially, they did not know who the victim was. We then conducted an investigation and identification process. The results confirmed that Demerina Uamang was indeed a victim of the kidnapping that occurred on 17 August last,” he explained.

Yusuf added that when Demerina was found, she was not alone; she was with her companion, Yosina, who was found to have passed away. According to him, both victims had endured approximately 20 days under extremely harsh conditions. Demerina was found in a weakened state and subsequently received medical care from the residents of Kampung Bela.