Cartenz Peace Task Force Uncovers Police Officer Involved in Ammunition Sales to Armed Group Network in Papua
Jayapura, May 19, 2025 – The Indonesian National Police has once again demonstrated its commitment to combating the illegal distribution of firearms and ammunition in Papua. This was proven through decisive action taken by the Law Enforcement Unit of the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force 2025, which successfully uncovered a case involving a rogue police officer.
An officer identified by the initials Bripda LO, who was serving in Lanny Jaya, has been apprehended after being strongly suspected of selling ammunition to a civilian affiliated with a local armed criminal group (KKB) operating in Papua’s central highlands.
The arrest followed an in-depth investigation by the Cartenz Peace Task Force, which traced illegal ammunition trafficking activities in the highland region. Evidence revealed that Bripda LO had supplied dozens of rounds to a civilian identified as PW, who is allegedly linked to the armed group led by Komari Murib in the Lenggenus area.
Based on the investigation, Bripda LO had been engaging in the illegal trade since 2017, continued again in 2021, and resumed the activity in 2025. Realizing that his actions had been exposed, he surrendered himself to the Papua Regional Police on Saturday, May 17, 2025, where he is now undergoing legal proceedings alongside PW.
The illegal transactions were carried out in the Lanny Jaya and Jayawijaya regions, with law enforcement action taking place at the Papua Regional Police Headquarters and Jayawijaya District Police.
The case underscores the significant threat posed by the involvement of security personnel in supplying arms to armed groups, which can seriously endanger public safety and undermine regional stability.
According to the Head of Operation Cartenz Peace 2025, Brigadier General Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, the police will not tolerate any individual—regardless of rank or status—who participates in or supports the illegal arms trade.
“This is concrete proof that we enforce the law without bias. Whether civilian or police personnel, anyone involved in such activities will be dealt with transparently and fairly. There is no place for traitors within our institution,” said Brig. Gen. Faizal during a press conference in Jayapura on Monday, May 19, accompanied by Deputy Operations Head, Police Commissioner Adarma Sinaga.
Bripda LO is now officially detained at the Papua Regional Police Detention Center, while PW is being held for further interrogation at Jayawijaya Police Headquarters. Both suspects are being charged under Emergency Law No. 12 of 1951 for illegal possession and distribution of ammunition, a serious offense that carries penalties of up to 20 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty.
In a separate statement, Cartenz Peace Operation Spokesperson, Police Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, called on the public to actively support efforts to maintain peace in Papua. He emphasized the importance of community vigilance in preventing the circulation of illegal weapons, which often become the root cause of conflict in remote regions.
“The public must remain alert and report any suspicious activity related to firearms or ammunition. Community participation is crucial in creating a safe and peaceful Papua,” said Commissioner Yusuf.
The Cartenz Task Force reaffirmed that internal oversight measures will continue to be strengthened to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents. In addition to field enforcement, internal supervision and disciplinary management remain a priority to ensure professionalism within the police force.
This firm action sends a clear message that the effort to maintain security and stability in Papua is a collective responsibility. The Indonesian National Police, through the Cartenz Peace Operation, remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate illegal practices that threaten public safety and disrupt peace in conflict-affected regions.
