Yalimo – The Cartenz Peace Operations Task Force 2025 successfully arrested a member of the armed criminal group (KKB) affiliated with the Aske Mabel faction. The suspect, known as Okoni Siep alias Nikson Matuan, was apprehended in Yalimo Regency on Sunday (2/2). During the arrest, authorities also seized two long-barreled AK China 2000P rifles, along with two magazines containing 46 live ammunition rounds. These weapons had previously been taken by Aske Mabel from the Yalimo Police Station in June 2024.
In addition to the weapons and ammunition, the authorities secured a black OPPO A18 smartphone, which is suspected to belong to the victim Korinus Yohanis Wentken, as well as a document requesting funding with the logo of the criminal organization affiliated with the KKB.
According to the investigation, Okoni Siep is strongly suspected of being involved in the shooting incident that targeted Muktar Layuk (deceased) and Korinus Yohanis Wentken (survived) on November 5, 2024, along the Trans Wamena-Jayapura Road in Kampung Hobakma, Yalimo Regency.
Brigadier General Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., Head of Cartenz Peace Operations 2025, emphasized that they will continue their pursuit of the Yalimo KKB group until the mission is accomplished.
“This arrest is an important step in law enforcement efforts against armed criminal groups that continue to disrupt security in Papua. We will continue our work until all the perpetrators and their network are apprehended,” said Brig. Gen. Faizal Ramadhani.
Police Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., Head of Public Relations for Cartenz Peace Operations 2025, urged the people of Papua, particularly in Yalimo, not to support the KKB group.
“We urge the public to stay alert and not be easily influenced by the KKB’s propaganda. If anyone has information about their whereabouts, immediately report it to the authorities so that together we can create peace and security in Papua,” stated Police Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo.
With the arrest of Okoni Siep, authorities are now continuing their search for Aske Mabel and his group, who are believed to be hiding in the Yalimo area.
The Cartenz Peace Operations Task Force 2025 reiterated its commitment to continue carrying out security operations to maintain order in Papua.
