Antara News·Indonesia·Sunday, August 16, 2026 at 02:11 AM

TNI troops seize weapons belonging to Papua rebels in Intan Jaya

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Marselinus N, Rahmad Nasution

Timika, C Papua (ANTARA) - Indonesian military (TNI) troops seized a revolver and a homemade firearm belonging to the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) in Central Papua's Intan Jaya District.

Habema Operations Command Spokesman Lt. Col. M. Wirya Arthadiguna said the seizure followed troops' readiness, vigilance and coordination during operations in the area.

"Habema troops will continue carrying out selective, measured and professional operations while prioritizing public safety in maintaining security in Papua," he said here Saturday.

The troops also seized seven rounds of ammunition, a box of air-rifle ammunition, a bow and five arrows, two noken bags, a Morning Star flag, a flashlight and nine batteries.

He said the seizure began when Habema troops conducted a security patrol in Gamagai Village, Ugimba Subdistrict, where they spotted indications of rebel activity.

Despite darkness, steep terrain and extremely cold temperatures, the troops continued their patrol while maintaining heightened vigilance, he said.

"Dog barks and flashlight beams detected near the river provided the initial clues, which were followed up through drone surveillance," he said.

He said aerial monitoring showed three people moving along the river toward Ugimba Subdistrict before stopping at a honai, a traditional Papuan house, believed to be a temporary shelter.

The information was reported through the chain of command, prompting rapid coordination and the deployment of additional troops from the Gamagai tactical post to conduct a raid.

The raid took place early Saturday, with troops securing the honai believed to have been used as a temporary shelter by the group.

During the operation, the OPM members fled into the forest and higher ground toward Kulapa Village, while troops recovered weapons, ammunition and other evidence.

"The success demonstrates the resilience of Habema troops in carrying out their duties amid Papua's difficult and challenging terrain," he said.

Wirya said the patrol was conducted selectively, professionally and proportionately, with troops prioritizing public safety and humanitarian principles while maintaining security and providing reassurance to communities across Papua.

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