Papua KKB Member Surrenders to Indonesian Authorities, Hands Over Firearm and Separatist Flag

A member of an armed criminal group (KKB) in South Papua, Yujin Butiop, has declared his return to the Republic of Indonesia and surrendered a homemade firearm. Butiop, who was under the command of KKB leader Marius Murib, also handed over a Morning Star flag.

Head of Information for the TNI Habema Operations Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya Artadiguna, confirmed the development on Monday. He stated that Murib, the KKB leader, is currently residing in Kuem Village, Papua New Guinea.

Butiop’s return to the fold of the nation took place on Sunday, 12 August, following an approach by soldiers from Infantry Battalion 403/WP stationed at the Rawa Busstop post in Jair District, Boven Digoel Regency. The area is located along the Indonesia-Papua New Guinea border.

Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya explained that the successful surrender was achieved through a humanitarian approach that prioritised dialogue and building trust. He revealed that Butiop, a father of four, expressed a hope that his children, particularly his second child, would have access to better schooling facilities.