TNI Takes Down OPM Operations Commander and Two Members in Maybrat, Security Measures Strengthened

 

MAYBRAT, SOUTHWEST PAPUA — Three people suspected of belonging to the armed group known as the Free Papua Organization (OPM), including a man identified by Indonesian military authorities as the group's operations commander, were reportedly killed in an exchange of gunfire with joint Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel in Maybrat Regency, Southwest Papua, on Friday, October 9, 2026. The operation took place in a forested area north of Kamat Village, East Aifat District, during a joint patrol operation.

Brigadier General Riyanto, Commander of the TNI Habema Operations Command, said preliminary identification indicated that one of those killed was Manfret Fatem, described by the military as the Operations Commander of OPM Kodap IV/Sorong Raya. The identities of the other two individuals were still being verified, according to the official information reported by ANTARA.

Exchange of Fire Occurred During Joint Patrol

According to the TNI Habema Operations Command, the exchange of gunfire occurred at approximately 8:25 a.m. Eastern Indonesian Time between a joint patrol team comprising Denkul 4/Rajawali V Task Force personnel and the 9th Marine Infantry Battalion Task Force, and a group identified by the military as OPM Kodap IV/Sorong Raya under Manfret Fatem's leadership.

The incident took place while joint personnel were conducting a patrol and enforcement operation in the forested area of East Aifat District.

Following the exchange, personnel secured the location and continued monitoring the area to prevent further security disturbances. Riyanto stated that no TNI personnel were reported injured or killed in the incident.

TNI Seizes Firearm and Ammunition

During the operation, security personnel recovered several items from the scene. According to the TNI Habema Operations Command, the seized evidence included one AK-101 firearm, 30 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition, 9 mm ammunition, and two mobile phones.

Personnel also reportedly found items associated with OPM, a Morning Star flag, an OPM document, and other equipment. These items were secured as part of the investigation at the scene. Further examination is needed to establish the full details of the evidence and its connection to the group's activities.

Identities of Two Other Individuals Remain Under Verification

In addition to Manfret Fatem, the two other individuals were reportedly suspected of being Yesias Fatem, described as Commander of the Mosata Battalion, and Antonius Assem, also known as Anton Fatem, described as Commander of the Ayosami Battalion within the OPM Kodap IV/Sorong Raya structure.

However, the TNI Habema Operations Command said their identities and alleged affiliations still required verification. Their identities and positions within the group should therefore not be considered conclusively established until the verification process is complete.

TNI Says Operation Was Conducted in a Measured Manner

Brigadier General Riyanto stated that security operations in the area were conducted professionally and in a measured manner, in accordance with applicable laws and rules of engagement. He emphasized that responses to threats against the safety of civilians and security personnel must follow established procedures.

This approach is particularly important in conflict-affected areas, where security operations must remain within the legal framework while taking civilian safety into account.

Civilian Protection Remains a Security Priority

The TNI Habema Operations Command stated that security measures would continue to maintain stability and protect communities from the effects of violence. In this context, security operations are not limited to action against armed groups; they are also intended to help create conditions in which residents can continue their daily activities.

A secure environment is essential for communities to access education, healthcare, transportation, and economic opportunities. Security disturbances can disrupt basic services and create uncertainty for people who live and work in affected areas.

Dialogue and Community Cooperation Remain Important

Alongside security operations, the TNI Habema Operations Command said it continued to prioritize dialogue, territorial engagement, and cooperation with local governments and community leaders.

These approaches are intended to maintain relations with local communities and support a more stable environment. Addressing security challenges in Papua requires sustained efforts, including coordination with regional authorities and community representatives to help ensure that public services and socioeconomic activities continue.

Security Stability Supports Development in Maybrat

Security is an important factor in sustaining regional development. Education, healthcare, trade, and government programs all require conditions that allow communities to carry out their activities without the threat of violence.

Efforts to maintain stability in Maybrat therefore need to go hand in hand with public services, regional development, and communication with local communities. Law enforcement against armed threats, combined with appropriate community engagement, can contribute to broader efforts to create a safer environment for residents.

Conclusion

The exchange of gunfire in Maybrat Regency on October 9, 2026, reportedly resulted in the deaths of three people suspected of belonging to OPM. One of them, Manfret Fatem, was identified in preliminary military findings as the group's operations commander. Security personnel also seized a firearm, ammunition, mobile phones, and other items from the scene.

The TNI Habema Operations Command said security measures would continue through a professional and measured approach, alongside dialogue and cooperation with local authorities and community leaders. Civilian protection, legal accountability, and the continuity of public services remain important elements in maintaining stability in Maybrat and the wider Southwest Papua region.