Two Shooting Incidents in Mimika, TNI Asserts They Are Not Related
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has stated that two shooting incidents that occurred in Mimika Regency, Central Papua, on 14 April 2026, are separate events and not related to each other.
This statement was issued by the TNI Habema Operational Command in response to information circulating in the community regarding allegations of a shooting targeting a child in Papua.
The Head of Public Relations for the TNI Habema Operational Command, Lieutenant Colonel Infantry Wirya Arthadiguna, explained that both incidents took place in different locations and have chronologies that are not connected to one another.
“The TNI asserts that there was no activity by TNI soldiers in Jigiunggi Village at the time of the shooting incident involving the child, and the two events occurred in different locations and times, and are not related,” said Wirya in his statement on Saturday (18/4/2026).
Upon arriving at the location, TNI soldiers reportedly came under gunfire from the group, leading to an exchange of shots.
In that incident, four individuals from the armed group were reported dead.
From the scene, the authorities secured several pieces of evidence, including two homemade firearms, one air rifle, ammunition of 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm calibres, and various sharp weapons such as machetes, axes, swords, and knives.
Additionally, communication devices such as mobile phones and handy talkies (HTs), OPM flags, identity documents, and other personal belongings were found.
TNI personnel received a report from the local village head regarding a child who had died from a gunshot wound.
Following up on the report, the TNI immediately conducted checks at the location and confirmed the presence of a victim.
However, the exact cause of the incident is still under further investigation.
The TNI emphasises that it will continue to uphold principles of professionalism, transparency, and accountability in every field operation.
“The TNI is committed to acting professionally, transparently, and accountably in every execution of duties,” he said.