Indonesian National Armed Forces Secures OPM Figure in Lanny Jaya Through Measured Action
Jayapura — The Habema Operations Command (Koops) has again taken security measures against armed groups in Papua. In an operation in Lanny Jaya, Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldiers successfully neutralized Mayer Wenda, also known as Kuloi Wonda, an OPM figure who had long been on the wanted list for his involvement in a number of violent acts.
In his statement, Koops Habema Commander Major General Lucky Avianto explained that the operation on Tuesday (August 5th) in Mukoni Village, Mukoni District, Lanny Jaya Regency, successfully neutralized one of the OPM figures, Mayer Wenda, also known as Kuloi Wonda, who is the Deputy Commander of Kodap XII/Lanny Jaya.
“Firm action against armed groups is carried out in accordance with legal procedures and only against those who resist or threaten the safety of the public or security forces,” said Major General Lucky Avianto.
Mayer Wenda has been on the Papua Regional Police’s wanted list since 2016 due to his involvement in several acts of violence, including premeditated murder, shootings at officers, and the burning of the Pirime Police Station in 2012. In 2014, he was also allegedly involved in intercepting a patrol and shooting at police personnel in Lanny Jaya.
The Commander of the Habema Operations Command (Koops Habema) revealed that during the arrest, Mayer Wenda and his group resisted armed resistance.
“When the arrest was about to be made, the person concerned and his associates resisted armed resistance, so firm and measured action was taken,” he explained.
In the gunfight, Mayer Wenda died at the scene along with another person, believed to be his younger brother, Dani Wenda.
Both bodies have been evacuated to Wamena Regional Hospital for further identification. The Habema Operations Command (Koops Habema) has also coordinated with relevant authorities in handling the incident.
Evidence seized from the location included one revolver, 24 rounds of ammunition, two ID cards in the names of Dani and Pemina Wenda, two cell phones, Rp 65,000 in cash, and a noken bag.
The Head of the Indonesian National Armed Forces Information Center, Major General Kristomei Sianturi, emphasized in his statement that the operation was part of the TNI’s implementation of its Main Duties in Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP).
“This success proves that every action taken by TNI soldiers in confronting armed groups is carried out professionally, measuredly, and in accordance with statutory regulations,” he said.
He also emphasized that the primary goal of the operation is to create a sense of security and peace among the Papuan people.
“This operation demonstrates our commitment to ensuring stability and security, especially in the lead-up to the 80th Indonesian Independence Day commemoration,” Kristomei said.
The TNI stated that this firm action is aimed at those found guilty of committing violence and threatening security. The security of the Papuan people remains its top priority.
