TNI Hunts Armed Group Suspected in Papua Travel Driver's Death

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) continues its pursuit of an armed group suspected of involvement in the killing of travel driver Aris Sanda in the Papua Mountains. Security around the incident area has also been strengthened to prevent further casualties. Major General TNI Muhammad Nas, Head of the TNI Information Center, stated that the pursuit of the perpetrators is ongoing. "We continue to strengthen community security, as well as the pursuit of perpetrators," Nas said when met at the opening of the TNI Fair at Silang Monas, Central Jakarta, as quoted by Antara, Saturday, September 19. According to the TNI, the Free Papua Organization (OPM) Kodap III Ndugama armed group is suspected of being behind the violence. The victim, Aris Sanda, was found dead along with his burned vehicle in the Danau Habema area, Papua Mountains. Lieutenant Colonel Inf. Wirya Arthadiguna, Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, explained that the incident began when Aris was transporting a number of passengers from Wamena to Mbua on Tuesday, September 15, at around 06.00 WIT. "A driver on behalf of Aris Sanda alias Bapak Tasya, from Toraja, was reported to be a victim of violent acts by the OPM Kodap III Ndugama armed group which resulted in the victim's death," said Wirya, quoted by Antara. According to Wirya, the car driven by Aris was intercepted by an armed group in the middle of the journey. The driver and passengers were then checked. Passengers were ordered to return to Wamena. Meanwhile, Aris was detained and taken on foot towards Lake Habema. A day later, Koops TNI Habema personnel conducted a search and sweep around the location. The team found the victim's vehicle in a burned condition along with Aris's body. "TNI Habema carried out a search and sweep around the scene of the incident. The team then found a vehicle unit in a burned condition along with the driver's body," said Wirya. The victim's body was then evacuated with security procedures. However, the exact cause of Aris' death is still under investigation. The TNI Chief of Staff said the TNI also strengthened security in Papua and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Indonesian territory. "The TNI is always committed to carrying out the task of defending the country, committed to securing every inch of our land. Don't let anyone want to leave the Republic of Indonesia," he said. Koops TNI Habema stated that the pursuit of those suspected of being involved would continue while supporting the law enforcement process. Source: VOI English