Cartenz Peace Task Force Takes Firm Action Against Police Officer Involved in Ammunition Trafficking in Papua
Jayapura, May 19, 2025 – Efforts to eradicate illegal arms and ammunition networks in Papua continue to be intensified by the Indonesian National Police. The Law Enforcement Unit of the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force 2025 recently apprehended a police officer identified as Bripda LO, who is suspected of selling ammunition to a civilian, PW, believed to be affiliated with the armed criminal group (KKB) led by Komari Murib in the Lenggenus area, Papua Highlands.
Bripda LO, who was stationed in Lanny Jaya, voluntarily turned himself in to the Papua Regional Police Headquarters on Saturday, May 17, after becoming aware that his illegal activities had been uncovered by the task force. According to preliminary investigations, he admitted to being involved in illegal ammunition sales since 2017, with activities resuming in 2021 and continuing again this year.
PW, the civilian recipient of the ammunition, has been detained at the Jayawijaya District Police Headquarters for further investigation. Meanwhile, Bripda LO is currently being held at the Papua Regional Police Detention Facility. Both individuals are being charged under Emergency Law No. 12 of 1951, which regulates the illegal possession and distribution of weapons and ammunition and carries severe penalties, including the death penalty, life imprisonment, or a maximum prison term of 20 years.
During a press conference held on Monday, May 19, Head of the Cartenz Peace Operation 2025, Brigadier General Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, reaffirmed the Indonesian Police’s full commitment to upholding the law without exception. He emphasized that strict action against internal misconduct is essential to maintaining the integrity of the institution and ensuring public trust.
“Anyone involved in the abuse of authority or in supplying ammunition to armed groups will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This is part of our serious effort to uphold security and stability in Papua,” said Brig. Gen. Faizal, accompanied by Deputy Task Force Commander, Police Commissioner Adarma Sinaga.
In a related statement, Spokesperson for the Cartenz Peace Operation, Police Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, urged the public to refrain from engaging in any logistical activities that support armed groups. He warned that involvement in any part of the supply chain—whether as provider, seller, or middleman—constitutes a serious criminal offense and poses a direct threat to civilian safety.
“We ask the public to be vigilant and become our partners in maintaining peace across Papua. Report any suspicious activities involving firearms or ammunition immediately,” Commissioner Yusuf appealed.
This decisive action underscores that the Cartenz Peace Operation is not solely focused on targeting armed groups in the field but is also committed to strengthening internal oversight. The task force continues to close off opportunities for misuse of authority and illegal supply lines that could be exploited by irresponsible parties.
The Indonesian National Police, through the Cartenz Peace Operation, remains firm in its mission to safeguard Papua and ensure that law enforcement upholds justice both externally and within its own ranks.
