Papua, KOTABARI.COM – The actions of the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Papua have stirred the region as Indonesia celebrated its 78th Independence Day. In a series of unsettling events, the KKB targeted TNI-Polri forces, set fire to facilities, and carried out arson attacks in several locations.
Their actions, which have caused significant concern, extended beyond assaulting TNI-Polri personnel on duty. They also involved the burning of telecommunication towers and other public facilities. The group’s tactic of constantly relocating after their attacks is an evident attempt to evade law enforcement pursuit.
Recently, the KKB conducted an act of terror by burning down houses of residents and a telecommunication tower in Kampung Kago, Ilaga District, Puncak Regency, Central Papua. The Central Papua Regional Police have launched an investigation into these arson attacks, identifying KKB Puncak as the main perpetrators. Law enforcement is actively pursuing these individuals.
Following the attacks, security forces remain on high alert to anticipate potential reprisals. Aerial observations revealed the extent of damage inflicted on houses and BTS towers due to the fires.
In the midst of this tense situation, the scenario escalated as Darson Hegemur, the Sub-District Head of Kramomongga, was fatally assaulted by the KKB. The group was also involved in the assault on schools and offices in Fakfak, which subsequently resulted in fires. The KKB employed bladed weapons such as machetes, spears, and arrows in their actions.
The Sub-District Head of Kramomongga, Darson Hegemur, tragically lost his life due to the KKB attack on August 15, 2023.
Earlier, Commander of the Mobile Task Force Yonif Raider 300 Brawijaya, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Afri Swandi Ritonga, also fell victim to a KKB attack. Though the shots hit his bulletproof vest, this incident nonetheless raised concerns within the Joint TNI-Polri Task Force.
Chief of Public Relations for West Papua Regional Police, Commissioner General Adam Erwindi, reported that there were 25 perpetrators involved in the KKB’s series of attacks. The destruction of the Kramomongga Sub-District office occurred at 19:30 WIT on the same day.
Adam further revealed that the KKB members used veils to conceal their identities and wielded bladed weapons such as machetes, spears, and arrows in their actions. The TNI-Polri joint forces acted swiftly to address the situation and successfully took control of the KKB’s headquarters in Gome, Puncak Regency, on August 15.
Papua’s Police Chief, Inspector General Mathius Fakhiri, confirmed that the KKB’s base in Gome had been seized by the TNI-Polri forces and evidence had been secured from the scene. The situation in Papua remains under close scrutiny from authorities in their efforts to maintain peace and order in the region.