Central Papua – The firm actions of security forces have once again yielded results in enforcing the law in the Papua region. The Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force successfully arrested Male Telenggen, a key figure in the armed separatist group the Free Papua Movement (OPM), in Wuyuneri Village, Puncak Jaya Regency, Central Papua, on Saturday (July 19, 2025). The arrest was carried out without resistance, and Male is now being held for further legal proceedings.
Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, Head of the Carstensz Peace Operation Task Force, explained that the arrest operation at Male’s hideout, a honai (household) in the mountainous region, went smoothly. “Male Telenggen is currently under security at the Puncak Jaya Police Station for further legal proceedings,” Faizal said.
According to Faizal, the arrest was part of a series of operations against armed separatist groups that frequently spread threats and violence. He stated that Male had been on the long-wanted list for his involvement in various armed criminal acts.
“Male Telenggen is a fugitive involved in two murder cases,” Faizal emphasized.
Authorities have recorded Male’s involvement in two murders in the past two years. On August 15, 2024, he was involved in an attack that killed an Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldier at the Sports Center in Luguneri Village, Pagaleme District. Furthermore, on July 12, 2025, he was also involved in the murder of a civilian named Edi Hermanto at the Central Market in Mulia City.
“This arrest is part of an effort to crack down on armed groups that have been disturbing residents,” added Faizal.
This action is a strong signal that the state is present and will not allow the violence in Papua to continue. Continued efforts to restore security and order in this conflict-prone region are considered crucial for strengthening public trust in the state and the rule of law. (^)