2 Soldiers Killed, TNI Tightens Surveillance in South West Papua

SORONG - The TNI has increased security and strengthened intelligence functions after the incident of contact with the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Sori Village, South Aifat District, Maybrat Regency, South West Papua, which resulted in two soldiers being killed.

The commander of the 181/Praja Vira Tama (PVT) Regional Command, Brigadier General Slamet Riyadi, said that his party had increased vigilance and mapped vulnerable areas to anticipate potential security disruptions.

"After this incident, we increased vigilance, mapped vulnerable areas, and tightened supervision in the field," he said in Sorong City, Antara, Sunday, March 22.

The TNI also strengthened coordination between units, including with the Habema Operation Task Force (Satgas) which involved soldiers from the 10th Marine Battalion. According to him, the division of the operation sector between units under Korem 181/PVT and the Habema Task Force allows for a quick response if there are disturbances in the field.

"We continue to coordinate with the Habema Task Force. With the division of existing sectors, any potential disruption can be responded to immediately," he said.

In addition, the TNI is considering adding or shifting troops to strengthen security in vulnerable areas, as well as improving intelligence capabilities in the field.

"The addition of troops is being planned, including intelligence reinforcement. Information from the community and intelligence officers will continue to be developed," he said.

Regarding the perpetrator of the attack, Slamet said his party had obtained initial indications, but more information would be provided after the data was declared valid.

"We already have suspicions about the perpetrator, but we will convey it after the information is really accurate," he said.

He emphasized that the incident would not reduce the solidity between the TNI and the National Police in maintaining security in South West Papua.

On that occasion, he also expressed his condolences for the deaths of two TNI AL soldiers who were part of the Habema Operation Task Force while carrying out state duties.