TNI Arrests OPM Leader in Papua Pegunungan Amidst Arms Purchase Deal

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have arrested Abdon Kisamdu, identified as a leader of the Free Papua Movement (OPM), at Nop Goliat Airport in Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan, on Saturday (19/9). Kisamdu was apprehended upon his arrival at the airport via Trigana Air flight PK-YSC. Personnel from Yonif 462 Pasgat and the Mandala Koops TNI Habema Task Force, under the command of Kogabwilhan III, secured Kisamdu. Panglima Kogabwilhan III Lieutenant General TNI Lucky Avianto stated that during initial questioning, Abdon Kisamdu confessed that his purpose in coming to Dekai, Yahukimo, was to conduct a transaction to purchase a number of firearms from someone in the Kali Seng area of Yahukimo. "To the TNI personnel, Abdon Kisamdu admitted that his purpose in coming to Dekai, Yahukimo, was to conduct a transaction to purchase a number of firearms from someone in the Kali Seng area of Yahukimo," Lucky said in a written statement on Sunday (20/9). TNI personnel also discovered conversation evidence on Abdon Kisamdu's mobile device, which is suspected to be related to the planned transaction. This finding is being further investigated as part of the examination process to obtain more information regarding the individual's activities. Separately, Kapuspen TNI Major General Muhammad Nas said that the TNI will continue to strengthen security measures in the Papua region to prevent various illegal activities that can disrupt public safety. "The TNI will take firm and measured action against any activity that threatens public safety, especially the use of weapons that can endanger the lives of innocent people," Nas said.