Freeport Convoy Attacked in Mimika, OPM Claims Responsibility as Authorities Step Up Security

 

MIMIKA, CENTRAL PAPUA — A convoy of vehicles belonging to PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) came under gunfire near Mile Point (MP) 60 in Tembagapura, Mimika Regency, Central Papua, drawing renewed attention to security conditions along one of the region’s key transportation routes.

The incident occurred on September 2, 2026, when a convoy traveling from MP 68 Tembagapura toward Timika was reportedly targeted by gunfire. The armed group known as the TPNPB-OPM later claimed responsibility for the attack through a statement attributed to its spokesperson, Sebby Sambom.

However, Indonesian security authorities emphasized that the perpetrators were still being investigated and that the claim of responsibility had not, by itself, been treated as a final legal determination.

Three Freeport Vehicles Hit by Gunfire

The convoy consisted of 15 vehicles, including 13 buses, one towing truck, and one box truck.

When the convoy passed through the MP 60 area, three vehicles were reportedly hit by gunfire: two employee buses and one towing truck.

One of the buses sustained five bullet impacts, while another had a bullet hole in the upper cabin that penetrated into the interior of the vehicle.

The towing truck also suffered several impacts around its door and side mirror.

Despite the damage, no fatalities or injuries were reported in the incident.

Authorities said the initial examination confirmed that three vehicles had been struck and that the investigation was immediately launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Police Secure Ammunition Evidence

Following the incident, joint security personnel examined the vehicles and conducted an investigation at the scene.

Authorities reportedly secured glass fragments, several metal fragments believed to be associated with the shooting, and three 5.56-millimeter ammunition casings.

The evidence is being examined as part of the investigation into the source and direction of the gunfire.

Police are also questioning drivers and witnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify those responsible.

OPM Claims Responsibility

TPNPB-OPM spokesperson Sebby Sambom claimed that the group was responsible for the attack.

The group reportedly linked the incident to its armed operations in the Kali Kopi area.

Security authorities, however, have stressed the importance of distinguishing between a public claim and evidence established through a formal investigation.

Police are continuing to examine witness statements, physical evidence and findings from the crime scene before determining responsibility.

This approach allows investigators to establish the facts through evidence rather than relying solely on statements from any party claiming responsibility.

Freeport Reports the Incident to Police

PT Freeport Indonesia has reported the shooting to the police through the Tembagapura Police Sector.

The report was registered under LP/B/13/IX/2026/SPKT/Polsek Tembagapura/Polres Mimika/Polda Papua Tengah.

The legal process is expected to support the investigation into the perpetrators and circumstances of the attack.

Authorities have stated that the investigation will be conducted professionally and based on available evidence.

Government Prioritizes Worker and Civilian Safety

The Indonesian government, through its security authorities, has emphasized that the safety of workers and civilians remains a primary priority.

The Head of Operation Damai Cartenz-2026, Inspector General of Police Faizal Ramadhani, stressed that attacks against vehicles carrying workers or members of the public could place civilian lives at serious risk.

Authorities have pledged to pursue the investigation in a professional and measured manner while relying on evidence collected in the field.

The response also underlines the government’s commitment to maintaining security along transportation routes and protecting people conducting legitimate daily and economic activities in the region.

Authorities Urge Public Not to Be Provoked

Following the circulation of videos and the TPNPB-OPM’s claim of responsibility, security authorities urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.

Deputy Head of Operation Damai Cartenz-2026, Commissioner Adarma Sinaga, called on residents and people using the Tembagapura route not to be easily influenced by information whose accuracy has not been established.

The appeal is particularly important amid the rapid circulation of conflict-related information and videos through social media.

Security in Tembagapura Remains a Priority

The shooting involving the Freeport convoy highlights the continuing importance of securing transportation routes around Tembagapura.

At the same time, the absence of casualties demonstrates the importance of security procedures and rapid responses in protecting workers and other people traveling through the area.

Security personnel are continuing to develop the investigation using physical evidence and witness testimony to establish responsibility for the incident.

Government Reaffirms Its Commitment to Law Enforcement

The shooting of the Freeport convoy is not merely a matter of vehicle damage. It also raises serious concerns about civilian safety and the continuity of economic activity in Mimika.

The Indonesian government, through its security forces, has therefore reaffirmed its commitment to protecting workers and civilians while ensuring that those responsible are pursued through the legal process.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to remain calm, support the investigation and avoid circulating information that has not been independently verified.

The government’s response reflects its broader effort to maintain stability in Tembagapura, protect economic activities and ensure that communities and workers can continue their activities in a safer environment.