Travel Driver Shot Dead by KKB in Wamena, Perpetrators Hunted

A travel driver originally from Toraja, South Sulawesi, named Aris Sanda, also known as Tasya, was shot dead by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) or the Free Papua Organisation (OPM) in Wamena, Jayawijaya, Papua Highlands. The TNI is now hunting the KKB members responsible for the shooting.

“We are conducting a pursuit of the perpetrators,” stated the Head of the TNI Public Information Centre, Major General TNI Hariyanto, to journalists on Thursday (17/09/2026).

The TNI is also optimising the role of deployed task forces to track down the KKB. “We are optimising the task forces that have already been deployed,” explained Hariyanto.

The TNI’s focus is also directed towards the safety of local residents. Authorities are working to protect citizens from the threat of KKB terror.

“The TNI is strengthening security for the residents,” he added.

It is reported that Tasya was shot by the KKB in Wamena while transporting logistics for local residents. The victim’s body was found inside a burnt vehicle.

The Commander of the TNI Habema Operational Command, Brigadier General TNI Lucky Avianto, expressed deep condolences to the victim’s family. The victim was known as a driver who served the community’s transport needs, carrying logistics and transporting local passengers from Wamena to inland areas. Officers evacuated the body according to standard procedures.

“I am deeply concerned and saddened by this incident. The victim was not carrying any threat. He was working, transporting logistics, and providing transport services for the people of Papua. People like him are the ones who have long supported life in the hinterlands. Violence against civilians is unjustifiable, and the perpetrators must be held accountable under the applicable law,” stated Lucky in his briefing on Wednesday (16/09).