Yahukimo, Papua Highlands — A man named Bahar bin Saleh (55) died after sustaining severe stab wounds in the yard of GIDI Siloam Church, Jalan Poros Logpon Kilometer 4, Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, on Tuesday night (October 14, 2025) around 8:05 PM WIT.
The Head of Ops Damai Cartenz, Brigadier General Pol. Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, stated that the victim, known to be a driver from Bugis/Makassar, was attacked by an unknown person (OTK) shortly after arriving at the church location.
“The victim was suddenly attacked from the direction of the entrance road. Although he attempted to run into the church area, the perpetrator continued to pursue him and repeatedly stabbed him until he collapsed,” Brigadier General Pol. Dr. Faizal Ramadhani explained.
Witnesses at the scene reported that the local tribal chief tried to stop the attacker by shouting, “Don’t, I am the tribal chief!” but the perpetrator continued with his assault.
The victim was then rushed to Dekai Regional Hospital (RSUD), but was pronounced dead due to severe stab wounds to the stomach, chest, and head.
Following the incident, joint teams from the Ops Damai Cartenz Task Force and Yahukimo Police immediately went to the scene to conduct a manhunt and secure the surrounding area of the church.
According to Deputy Head of Ops Damai Cartenz, Kombes Pol. Adarma Sinaga, initial investigations indicate that the stabbing suspect is believed to be from an Armed Criminal Group (KKB) claiming to be part of Kodap XVI Yahukimo, actively conducting actions in the Jalan Poros Logpon KM 4 area.
It is known that the victim had assisted in preparations for the inauguration of GIDI Siloam Church, which was scheduled to take place today. However, due to this tragic incident, the inauguration event has been postponed.
The police emphasize that this incident demonstrates the brutality of the KKB, which continues to carry out armed acts of violence, including at places of worship, public facilities, and other areas.
