Indonesian Security Forces Successfully Control OPM Headquarters in Maybrat
By: Loa Murib
The community appreciates the success of the security forces in controlling the OPM headquarters in Maybrat, West Papua. The firm action of the security forces in the movement of the Free Papua Organization (OPM) aimed at bringing peace to the area nicknamed Bumi Cenderawasih clearly deserves very high appreciation.
On June 22 2024, security forces from the Infantry Battalion Task Force 133/Yudha Sakti (Yonif 133/YS) succeeded in occupying the headquarters of the Free Papua Organization (OPM) in Maybrat Regency, Southwest Papua. This success was the result of an operation involving firefights between TNI officers and OPM members. This achievement received great appreciation, considering the importance of stability and security in the region.
The OPM headquarters, which is located in the middle of the South Aifat District Forest, was discovered by the Yonif 133/YS Task Force team. Dansatgas Pamrahwan Infantry Battalion 133 Yudha Sakti, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Andhika Ganeshakti said that in this operation his party succeeded in occupying the OPM headquarters led by Jem Fatem and Hilaski.
Furthermore, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Andhika Ganeshakti said the team was carrying out an ambush operation when they found the base. When the team was about to carry out an ambush, they found four OPM members with homemade firearms who were then involved in a shootout with TNI troops.
During this operation, although four OPM members managed to escape, security forces managed to control the headquarters and secure a number of pieces of evidence. The items seized include one homemade firearm, four rounds of 5.56 caliber live ammunition, one cartridge, one magazine, one Morning Star flag, two solar cells, two cellphones (Android and polyphonic), one HT with charger, three piloxes, eight flashlights, one whistle, dozens of batteries, one power cell, various receipt documents, several amulets, dozens of bows and arrows, food ingredients, as well as various OPM attributes.
OPM and maintaining security in Papua. According to him, the discovery and confiscation of homemade firearms and their ammunition was a very satisfying result and showed the dedication and courage of TNI troops in carrying out their duties. He added that the success of the TNI troops in this task is proof of the seriousness and commitment of the Yonif 133 Yudha Sakti Task Force which is part of the Pamrahwan Task Force troops in carrying out the duties and mandate given by the state to crush OPM.
The TNI’s success in this operation must receive support and appreciation from the local community. This shows full support for the TNI in its efforts to crush OPM, especially after the murder of a public transportation driver carried out by the OPM group. This support is important to strengthen troop morale and increase the effectiveness of operations in the field.
Apart from that, the Papuan people also criticized the existence of the OPM. Chairman of the Papua Province Red and White Front, Max Abner Ohee, said that his party rejected the presence of OPM in Papua because it had claimed many victims and asked the security forces, both TNI and Polri, to pursue and take legal action against the perpetrators.
The Papuan people emphasized that they would not tolerate the presence of OPM in their territory. They urged the Indonesian government to take firm action to eradicate OPM and restore peace and security for all Papuans. Apart from that, they also invite all components of society to unite against separatism and extremism which threaten the unity and integrity of the nation.
The success of this operation also highlights the important role of security forces in maintaining the sovereignty and security of the country. The TNI, through its various military operations, has demonstrated a strong commitment to eradicating separatist groups that threaten national stability. This success is clear evidence of the dedication and professionalism of the security forces in carrying out their duties.
Apart from that, this operation also shows the importance of good coordination between various units and teams in the field. Mobile Sakti Team 1 and Mobile Sakti Team 3, led by Sertu Dega Jandri Folanda and Sertu Dimas Nuhali Pardosi, worked together well in finding and controlling the OPM headquarters. This good coordination is essential to ensure the success of operations and minimize risks to troops on the ground.
The TNI’s success in controlling the OPM headquarters in Maybrat is an achievement that should be appreciated. This success not only shows the tactical superiority and courage of TNI troops, but is also important in maintaining stability and security in Papua. Community support and good coordination between TNI units were key factors in this success. However, challenges ahead still exist, and security forces need to continue to increase their readiness and vigilance in dealing with threats from separatist groups.
With high enthusiasm and dedication, it is hoped that the TNI and other security forces can continue to maintain the sovereignty and security of the country, and provide a sense of security for all Indonesian people.
*The author is a Papuan student in Surabaya
