Clash in Nduga: Indonesian Military Seizes IDR 88 Million and Weapons as Efforts to Protect Civilians Continue

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NDUGA, PAPUA HIGHLANDS – Indonesian military personnel were involved in an armed clash with a group suspected of belonging to the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) near Nonggoloit Village, Kenyam District, Nduga Regency, Papua Highlands, on Friday, October 23, 2026. Two individuals suspected of being members of the armed group were reportedly killed. The troops also seized several items of evidence, including IDR 88 million in cash and various weapons.

The incident occurred while personnel from Task Force Rajawali VI, Detachment 1, under the Habema Military Operations Command, were conducting a territorial patrol. According to Brigadier General Riyanto, Commander of the Habema Military Operations Command, the patrol followed information about the suspected presence of an armed group near a residential area.

Gunfire Erupts During Security Patrol

Brigadier General Riyanto explained that, according to the report received by the military, members of the group allegedly fired at the personnel during checks in the area. The situation subsequently escalated into an exchange of gunfire between the two sides.

Two individuals suspected of belonging to the KKB Kodap III/Ndugama-Nderakma group were reportedly killed at the scene, while other members allegedly fled into the surrounding forest. At the time the report was published, the identities of the two deceased individuals were still being examined by the authorities.

Military Seizes IDR 88 Million and Various Items of Evidence

In addition to securing the area, Indonesian military personnel seized several items allegedly associated with the armed group. The reported evidence included two air rifles, a bow and arrows, bladed weapons, 18 mobile phones, handheld radio communication devices, documents, group insignia, and IDR 88 million in cash.

The seized items may assist further investigations into the group's activities and the possible involvement of other parties. However, the origin of the cash and the specific purpose of each item require further examination and official clarification from the authorities.

Protecting Civilians Remains a Priority

Brigadier General Riyanto stated that military personnel were expected to act selectively, proportionately, and professionally. He also emphasized that operational rules remained in force, with the safety of civilians treated as a priority.

This approach is particularly important because security incidents near residential areas can directly affect local communities. Patrols and follow-up measures based on information about suspected armed-group activity form part of the security efforts in Nduga Regency.

Habema Command Urges Armed Group Members to Abandon Violence

Following the incident, the Habema Military Operations Command renewed its appeal to those involved in armed violence to cease their activities. The command also emphasized that opportunities remain for them to return to their families and communities.

The appeal highlights the importance of resolving conflict without violence so that people in Papua can live more safely and build a peaceful future. Government agencies and security personnel are expected to continue prioritizing civilian protection while working to ensure that armed conflict does not disrupt daily life.


Location: Australia

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