Yahukimo, Papua Pegunungan — A man identified as Bahar bin Saleh (55) was killed after suffering severe stab wounds in the courtyard of GIDI Siloam Church, located on Jalan Poros Logpon Kilometer 4, Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, on Tuesday evening (October 14, 2025) at around 8:05 p.m. WIT.
Head of the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force, Brig. Gen. (Pol) Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., said that the victim, a driver originally from Bugis/Makassar, was attacked by an unidentified assailant shortly after arriving at the church premises.
“The victim was suddenly assaulted from the entrance area. Although he tried to escape into the church compound, the attacker chased and repeatedly stabbed him until he collapsed,” Brig. Gen. Faizal Ramadhani explained.
According to witnesses, the local tribal chief attempted to stop the perpetrator by shouting, “Stop, I am the tribal leader!”, but the attacker ignored the warning and continued the assault.
The victim was rushed to Dekai Regional Hospital (RSUD Dekai) but was pronounced dead due to multiple stab wounds to his abdomen, chest, and head.
Following the incident, joint personnel from the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force and Yahukimo Police immediately arrived at the scene to conduct pursuit operations, area searches, and secure the church vicinity.
Deputy Head of the Task Force, Commissioner (Pol) Adarma Sinaga, S.I.K., M.Hum., stated that initial investigations indicated the attacker was likely affiliated with the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) claiming to be part of Kodap XVI Yahukimo, which has been active along Jalan Poros Logpon KM 4.
It was also revealed that the victim had been assisting with preparations for the inauguration of GIDI Siloam Church, which was scheduled for today. However, the event had to be postponed following the tragic incident.
Police authorities emphasized that this case serves as further evidence of the brutality of the KKB, which continues to carry out violent acts indiscriminately — even targeting health facilities, schools, and houses of worship.
