Operation Damai Cartenz Arrests Another Suspected Arms Supplier to KKB in Jayapura, Bringing Total Number of Detainees to 17

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JAYAPURA, PAPUA — The 2026 Operation Damai Cartenz Task Force, working with the Papua Regional Police Criminal Investigation Directorate, has arrested another man identified by the initials IHB, also known as H, aged 23, who was on a wanted list in connection with an alleged illegal firearms and ammunition network in Jayapura. The arrest is part of an investigation that began in March 2026 and, according to police, has resulted in 17 people being detained in connection with the case.

Operation Damai Cartenz 2026 Public Relations Task Force Chief, Police Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, said IHB was arrested on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at approximately 1:34 p.m. local time in the Padang Bulan area of Heram District, Jayapura City. The arrest followed an investigation into suspected firearms and ammunition transactions allegedly intended to supply an armed criminal group (KKB) in Papua.

Arrest of Wanted Suspect Advances Investigation into Illegal Arms Network

According to police, IHB allegedly acted as an intermediary in firearms and ammunition transactions alongside YYS, also known as OS or K. Both individuals were reportedly linked to a series of transactions connecting a suspected buyer identified by the initials SP with a suspected seller identified as YK.

The arrest followed investigators’ efforts to trace information about the involvement of several individuals in the case. The investigation is not limited to people suspected of direct involvement in the transactions but also seeks to establish the roles of intermediaries and the relationships between parties in the alleged network.

Police Report 17 People Detained in the Case

Yusuf Sutejo stated that IHB’s arrest brought the total number of people detained in connection with the alleged illegal firearms and ammunition network to 17. Sixteen people had previously been detained, with suspected roles ranging from suppliers of firearms and ammunition to transaction intermediaries, buyers, and individuals allegedly providing funds.

One earlier development was the arrest of YYS, also known as OS or K, on September 29, 2026, in the Argapura area of Jayapura. YYS was also on the wanted list and was suspected of acting as a transaction intermediary. Investigators are continuing to examine the links between the individuals to establish the full distribution chain.

However, the alleged involvement of each individual must still be established through the investigation and judicial proceedings in accordance with applicable law.

Hundreds of Rounds of Ammunition and Firearm Components Seized

During the investigation, which began in March 2026, police reported seizing 298 rounds of ammunition, four long SS1 magazines, one short SS1 magazine, one homemade firearm, and six barrels from World War II-era firearms that were reportedly found in a rusted condition.

The items form part of the evidence being examined to investigate suspected unlicensed weapons distribution. Further examination is needed to establish their origins, ownership, and possible connection to the transactions under investigation.

The discovery of these items has also provided investigators with grounds to examine whether other supply routes or additional individuals may have been involved in the alleged network.

Operation Damai Cartenz Traces the Supply Chain

The case originated from an investigation into suspected illegal firearms and ammunition transactions that has been ongoing since March 2026. The police report underlying the investigation was registered on March 13, 2026. Since then, investigators have pursued information about individuals suspected of acting as suppliers, buyers, intermediaries, and financiers.

Police have stated that the investigation will continue to establish the role of each individual and determine whether others may have been involved. Tracing the network comprehensively is important to ensure that law enforcement efforts do not stop with individual arrests but also examine the transactions and relationships that may have enabled illegal weapons and ammunition to circulate.

Law Enforcement Efforts Aim to Reduce Risks to Civilians

The illegal circulation of firearms and ammunition can increase the risk of violence if the items fall into the hands of people who use them to commit crimes. Investigating suspected distribution networks is therefore an important part of efforts to maintain public safety in Papua.

The work of the Operation Damai Cartenz Task Force should be accompanied by professional investigations, evidence that can withstand scrutiny, and law enforcement procedures that respect the rights of every individual. These principles help ensure accountability while supporting civilian protection and the continuation of daily community activities.

Suspects to Be Processed Under Applicable Law

According to the detikSulsel report, investigators cited Article 306 in conjunction with Article 20 of Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Indonesian Criminal Code in connection with alleged unlawful possession or control of firearms, ammunition, explosives, or other dangerous materials. The report states that the cited provision carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.

Police are continuing to question IHB to clarify his alleged role and possible connections with other individuals. The legal responsibility of each person will be determined based on the investigation, admissible evidence, and the applicable judicial process.

Conclusion

The arrest of IHB, also known as H, in Jayapura on October 6, 2026, marks another development in the investigation into an alleged illegal firearms and ammunition network being handled by the 2026 Operation Damai Cartenz Task Force and the Papua Regional Police. Police say a total of 17 people have been detained in connection with the case, while hundreds of rounds of ammunition, several magazines, a homemade firearm, and firearm components have also been seized.

Investigators are continuing to examine the roles of those involved and map the alleged network. Evidence-based and accountable law enforcement, carried out in accordance with legal procedures, remains important in preventing illegal weapons distribution and protecting communities in Papua.

Location: Australia

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