Leftover OPM Ammunition Explodes in Highland Papua, Teenager Searching for Coconuts Killed

An explosion occurred in an area previously known as a base for the West Papua National Liberation Army - Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) in Lanny Jaya Regency, Highland Papua. The blast resulted in the death of a teenager, Endite Wea (18).

“The explosion site is located in an area previously identified as the former TPNPB-OPM Kodap XII/Lanny Jaya base of the Purom Okiman Wenda group,” stated the Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, Lt Col Inf M Wirya Arthadiguna, on Sunday (7/6/2026).

The explosion took place in the Toemalo Village area on Sunday (7/6). Based on preliminary investigations, the blast was triggered by leftover explosives or ammunition belonging to the OPM.

“Based on initial observations of the explosion characteristics and the condition of the site, there are suspicions that the source of the explosion originated from leftover explosives or ammunition left behind by armed separatist groups in the region,” he explained.

The explosion occurred while a group of residents from Toemalo, Mbu, and Wunaburgu villages were engaged in activities to search for and burn forest coconuts. The blast killed one resident.

“A resident named Endite Wea (18), from Mbu Village, is reported to have died due to the explosion at the location,” he added.

Wirya has urged the public to stay away from the explosion site. Personnel from the TNI Habema Operations Command Task Force are still investigating the exact cause of the fatal explosion.