Arrest of OPM Figure Strengthens Commitment to Law Enforcement in Papua

Central Papua – Firm action by security forces has once again yielded results in enforcing the law in Papua. The Carstensz Peace Operation Task Force successfully arrested Male Telenggen, a key figure in the armed separatist group the Free Papua Movement (OPM), in Wuyuneri Village, Puncak Jaya Regency, Central Papua, on Saturday (July 19, 2025). The arrest was carried out without resistance, and Male is now being held for further legal proceedings.

The Head of the Carstensz Peace Operation Task Force, Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, explained that the arrest operation went smoothly at Male’s hideout, a honai (house) in the mountainous region. “Currently, Male Telenggen is under security at the Puncak Jaya Police Station for further legal proceedings,” said Faizal.

According to Faizal, the arrest is part of a series of operations against armed separatist groups that frequently spread threats and violence. He stated that Male had been on the long-wanted list for his involvement in various armed criminal acts.

“Male Telenggen is a fugitive involved in two murder cases,” Faizal emphasized.

Authorities have recorded Male’s involvement in two murders that occurred in the past two years. On August 15, 2024, he was involved in an attack that killed an Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldier at the Sports Center in Luguneri Village, Pagaleme District. Furthermore, on July 12, 2025, he was also involved in the murder of a civilian named Edi Hermanto at the Central Market in Mulia City.

“This arrest is part of an effort to take action against armed groups that have been causing unrest among residents,” Faizal added.

This action is a strong signal that the state is present and will not allow violence in Papua to continue. Continued efforts to restore security and order in this conflict-prone region are considered crucial in strengthening public trust in the state and the rule of law. (^)