Kogabwilhan III Commander Says Intelligence Supports Security Operations in Papua
Jakarta (ANTARA) – The commander of the Joint Regional Defence Command III, Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto, stressed the importance of intelligence support in security operations in Papua.
“Information on the whereabouts of armed groups is considered helpful to security forces in determining operational targets and reducing risks to civilians in the surrounding area,” Lucky said in a statement received in Jakarta on Saturday.
He said cooperation between the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) and Indonesian military operational units was an important part of efforts to address the threat of armed violence.
He cited a successful operation by a joint force comprising the Marine Infantry Battalion Task Force 9 and the Fourth Company of the Rajawali V Task Force under the Habema TNI Operations Command, targeting the armed group TPNPB-OPM Kodap IV Sorong Raya in Maybrat Regency, South-west Papua.
During the operation, TPNPB-OPM Kodap IV Sorong Raya Operations Commander Manfret Fatem and two battalion commanders, Anton Fatem and Yesias Fatem, were reported killed in an exchange of fire with Indonesian military personnel.
“According to the operational information provided, the action was supported by A1-grade intelligence from the State Intelligence Agency (BIN),” Lucky said.
The joint military force reportedly found the hideout of Manfret Fatem, along with Anton Fatem, commander of the Ayosami Battalion, and Yesias Fatem, commander of the Mosata Battalion.
“The three reportedly fired at the troops, leading to an exchange of fire. Manfret Fatem was reported killed at the scene, while Anton Fatem and Yesias Fatem were reported killed as they tried to flee towards the Frambu River. A search for the two bodies, said to have sunk in the river, is ongoing,” he said.
The seized evidence formed part of the operation’s results.
Lucky said the military would continue to secure the region and enforce the law against the threat of armed violence in a professional, firm and measured manner.
All personnel under Kogabwilhan III’s command are also required to prioritise the rules of engagement (ROE), legal provisions and respect for human rights in every operation.
“The principle salus populi suprema lex esto — the people’s safety is the supreme law — remains our primary guide in conducting operations. Civilian safety, the protection of residents and the maintenance of security and stability in Papua are priorities that all military personnel must uphold,” he said.
The reported operation in Maybrat was part of the military’s ongoing efforts to maintain security in South-west Papua.
Intelligence support from BIN and coordination between units are expected to strengthen the effectiveness of operations while ensuring accountability, compliance with the law and protection of the public.