Unidentified Assailant Kills Water Delivery Worker in Yahukimo, Police Launch Investigation

Dekai – A refillable drinking water depot worker named Harry Karyanto was killed after being attacked by an unidentified person in Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua, on Friday night (May 2, 2025).

Yahukimo Police Chief AKBP Zet Saalino confirmed the incident. According to him, the victim was found lifeless by local residents near the edge of a forest close to Jalan Statistik around 7:00 p.m. local time.
“The victim was found lying on the ground with slash wounds on his body. No gunshot wounds were found. Preliminary suspicion is that the victim died due to sharp weapon injuries,” Saalino said when contacted on Saturday (May 3, 2025).

Harry, originally from Toraja, South Sulawesi, worked as a water gallon deliveryman. At the time of the incident, he was delivering an order when he was attacked mid-route by an unknown assailant.

After receiving a report from residents, officers from the Yahukimo Police immediately responded to the scene and conducted a crime scene investigation.
“Initial findings suggest this case is not related to the recent gold prospector murder. This appears to be a separate incident,” the police chief added.

Currently, police and joint security forces are pursuing the suspect. Meanwhile, the victim’s body is scheduled to be returned to his hometown in Toraja on Sunday morning.

AKBP Saalino urged the public to remain vigilant, especially at night.
“We urge residents not to travel alone, particularly through forest paths at night, to avoid unwanted incidents. The situation in Yahukimo is generally returning to normal,” he concluded.