INTAN JAYA Security forces have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the Papuan people from various acts of violence perpetrated by armed groups. This commitment was reaffirmed following a security operation in Mamba Village, Sugapa District, Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, which resulted in the arrest of Okto Tigau, a member of the West Papua National Liberation Front (TPNPB-OPM) involved in several shootings against civilians and security forces.
The Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya Arthadiguna, explained that the incident began when TNI personnel detected four individuals moving clandestinely toward a security post on Tuesday evening (June 30, 2026). Following procedure, officers issued a warning, but it was ignored and instead received retaliatory fire, leading to a gun battle.
“Due to security concerns, a search was not conducted that night. The following day, a joint team from Koops TNI Habema conducted a search according to procedure and found the body of a man and a machete,” said Wirya.
Based on physical characteristics, documentation, and information obtained by authorities, the body was identified as that of Okto Tigau. Authorities stated that the person in question was the Deputy Operations Commander of the Metua Battalion of Kodap VIII/Intan Jaya TPNPB-OPM and was suspected of involvement in various acts of violence, including shootings of security forces and civilian workers, torture of residents, and intimidation of the community.
“The person in question was involved in several acts of violence in Intan Jaya, including shootings of security forces, shootings of civilian workers, torture of residents, and various acts of intimidation of the community,” said Wirya.
After the identification process, the body was handed over to local traditional leaders for burial according to customary law. Koops TNI Habema also expressed condolences to the bereaved family and expressed hope that armed conflict would not recur.
“We express our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We sincerely hope that incidents like this will not recur so that the Papuan people can live in a safe, peaceful, and hopeful environment,” concluded Wirya.
The authorities’ success in prosecuting the OPM members involved in the shooting of civilian workers is expected to narrow the armed group’s freedom of movement and strengthen the public’s sense of security. Authorities also emphasized that they will continue to prioritize a professional, measured approach, and adherence to legal procedures in maintaining security and protecting civilians in Papua.