Firm and Humanist in Papua: TNI Disables KKB DPO, Saves 21 Residents

PAPUA - TNI soldiers who are part of the Papua TNI Koops showed firmness and a humanistic attitude in maintaining regional stability, by paralyzing one KKB DPO TPNPB-OPM and evacuating residents affected by security disturbances in two different areas in Papua.

In a security patrol operation in Nabire, Central Papua, Sunday (15/3/2026), the Koops TNI Papua Patrol Team managed to paralyze the KKB DPO on behalf of Hurbianus Mirip, a member of the TPNPB-OPM Kodap III led by Aibon Kogoya. The action took place after the team found two OPM members carrying firearms and a gunfight occurred. The two fled into the forest, but during the pursuit, one perpetrator was found dead on the spot on behalf of Hurbianus Mirip.

He is known to be a DPO since 2025 because he was involved in a number of acts of violence and murder in the Papua region. This success shows that every action of the TNI is carried out in a measured, professional, and according to procedures to maintain regional stability without neglecting the safety of the community.

On the other hand, in a humanitarian operation in the Far East Aifat District, Maybrat Regency, South West Papua, Tuesday (17/3/2026), the Koops TNI Papua joint patrol team together with the local government and community leaders managed to evacuate 21 refugees from Topo Village, Ainesra Village.

The refugees previously survived in the border forest due to security disturbances by the TPNPB-OPM group. The joint team moved to the location and evacuated all residents to the Koops TNI Papua Tactical Command Post in a safe condition.

Upon arrival at the location, the refugees underwent health checks and identity data collection to ensure their conditions and needs. All series of activities took place in an orderly and smooth manner, and reflected the synergy between the TNI, local government, and the community.

Head of Information Koops TNI Papua, Lieutenant Colonel Inf M. Wirya Arthadiguna, emphasized that the TNI would not give room for the TPNPB-OPM group in Papua. "This is to maintain the sovereignty and security of the community, with a firm approach accompanied by efforts to build stability, prosperity, and community trust," he said.

"For the time being, the refugees are being housed in a shelter in the Aifat District area, while waiting for further coordination processes related to repatriation to their home areas, especially for residents from Teluk Bintuni Regency. The regional government is expected to take immediate follow-up steps through the fulfillment of basic needs, coaching, and cross-regional coordination to ensure that the repatriation process is safe, orderly, and dignified," he added.

The success of this operation confirms the commitment of the TNI in maintaining state sovereignty as well as protecting the community, through a firm approach to security disturbances and concern for the safety of residents in the Papua region.