OPM Figure Jeki Murib Killed by TNI in Shootout
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The TNI Habema Operational Command neutralised Jeki Murib, the Operational Commander of the OPM Air Headquarters for the 18 Ilaga Defence Command Area, in Pinapa Village, Omukia District, Puncak Regency, Central Papua.
The Commander of the Joint Defence Area Command III, Lieutenant General TNI Lucky Avianto, revealed that the operation took place after Jeki Murib fired wildly at TNI troops.
“We carried out tactical activities in the field. Our troops were shot at brutally and indiscriminately. And there, we conducted an engagement,” said Lucky in a video statement, quoted on Tuesday (28/4/2026).
Lucky explained that Jeki Murib was a fugitive and the main instigator in the Ilaga area and PT Freeport.
“He is the one who shot dead Freeport employees in Grasberg, then attacked security personnel at Mile 50 Freeport, burned houses, churches, schools, intimidated the public, children, and mothers. Alhamdulillah, praise the Lord, we were able to neutralise them,” he stated.
“The TNI through the Habema TNI Koops has successfully neutralised Jeki Murib, Danops of the OPM Air Headquarters Kodap 18 Ilaga, in Pinapa Village, Omukia District,” said Wirya in his statement on Tuesday.
Wirya recounted that Jeki Murib was suspected of involvement in several violent acts, including the burning of a tower complex in Kago Village, Ilaga District, on 15 August 2023, as well as the murder and assault of healthcare centre construction workers in Eromaga Village, Omukia District, on 19 October 2023.
Additionally, Jeki was suspected of involvement in the shooting at Aminggaru Airport on 18 June 2025 and the hostage-taking of 18 PT Freeport Indonesia employees at Tower 270, Tembagapura District, on 8 January 2026.
He was also suspected of involvement in the attack and weapon seizure against two members of the Tembagapura Koramil, which injured civilians, on 11 February 2026, as well as the shooting of two PT Freeport Indonesia employees in the Grasberg area and the attack on police personnel during victim evacuation on 11 March 2026.
“OPM’s actions have caused fear and disrupted the lives of the community, including hindering the economy and public activities,” said Wirya.
He explained that the enforcement was part of the TNI’s duties under the framework of Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP) as regulated in Law No. 3 of 2025, particularly regarding the handling of armed separatist movements and armed rebellions.
“The operation was carried out in a measured, professional, and humane manner, prioritising the safety of civilians and supported by customary leaders, religious figures, local government, and all levels of society,” said Wirya.
“Therefore, to our brothers still in the forest, let us stop the violence. Return to the midst of society, abandon the path of separatism, and together build a safe, peaceful, and prosperous Papua,” he urged.