Joint Forces Tighten Security In Intan Jaya After KKB Shooting Action

TIMIKA A joint TNI-Polri apparatus tightened security in Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, following the shooting allegedly carried out by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) around Bilorai Airport, Sugapa, Wednesday, July 23 at around 11.32 WIT.

Head of Damai Cartenz Operations, Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, confirmed that there was an incident of gunfire originating from the direction of the old airport terminal, which is no longer functioning. In this incident, there were no casualties or material losses.

"Although it did not cause any casualties, we continue to increase our vigilance and take security measures so that the situation remains conducive, especially ahead of the 80th Anniversary of Indonesian Independence," said Faizal, quoted on Thursday (24/7).

Shots were heard four times when Intan Jaya Police personnel and TNI Kopasgat soldiers were on guard around the airport area. The authorities immediately responded with a retaliatory shot and gave chase at the Wabu River. Two gunmen were reportedly able to escape into the forest.

The authorities suspect that the action was a form of revenge for the death of one of the KKB leaders, Enos Tipagau, in a law enforcement operation by the Cartenz Peace Task Force on July 5 in Baitapa Village, Sugapa District. In addition, the shooting is also believed to be an effort to create tension ahead of the commemoration of the Republic of Indonesia's 80th Anniversary on August 17.

Deputy Head of Peace Operations Cartenz, Kombes Pol Adarma Sinaga, emphasized that guarding at vulnerable points will continue to be tightened to ensure the situation remains safe and community activities are not disrupted.

"We carry out intensive security so that the national agenda runs smoothly, and people can continue to carry out their activities as usual," he said.

Meanwhile, Head of the Public Relations Task Force for the Damai Cartenz Ops, Kombes Pol Yusuf Sutejo, appealed to residents to remain calm and not be provoked by actions aimed at disrupting the situation. He also asked for the active participation of the community in maintaining regional stability.

If you see suspicious activity, immediately report it to the security forces. Community support is very important in creating mutual security," he said.

The security measures taken by the authorities, said Yusuf, are part of a firm but still prioritizing the principles of humanism, as well as upholding the laws and human rights. The government emphasizes that security stability in the central mountainous region of Papua will continue to be maintained with full responsibility.