Police Uncover Firearms Supply Chain to Armed Groups in Papua

Jakarta – Cartenz Peace Operation spokesperson Comr. Yusuf Sutejo said on Sunday that YK was apprehended on Saturday at around 1:16 p.m. local time at Sarmi Central Market in Sarmi regency, Papua, following intelligence reports about his whereabouts.

He explained that the arrest was part of a broader investigation into a weapons and ammunition supply network linked to KKB groups in Yalimo and Yahukimo.

The law enforcement operation began in March. Since then, Cartenz task force personnel have arrested several individuals playing different roles within the network, including financiers, buyers, ammunition suppliers and transaction intermediaries.

“Based on the investigation, YK had received a firearm along with ammunition from a man identified as B in early March at his residence in Argapura, Jayapura,” Yusuf said.

The firearm and ammunition were allegedly distributed to several parties who later conducted transactions with a group led by Simeon Payage.

Following his arrest, YK was taken to the Sarmi Police headquarters for further questioning regarding his suspected involvement in the illegal arms supply network.

Authorities also seized several items belonging to the suspect, including mobile phones, identification documents, bank cards, cash in various denominations and other personal belongings, which will be used as evidence in the ongoing investigation.

According to Cartenz task force data, at least 12 individuals have been named suspects in connection with the weapons and ammunition network as of early June.

During the series of enforcement actions, officers also confiscated 298 rounds of ammunition, four SS1 rifle magazines, one homemade firearm and six old war-era gun barrels found in rusted condition and without stocks.

Indonesianpost.com | Antara