Joint TNI-Polri officers are on standby to maintain security stability in Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, following a shooting incident allegedly carried out by an Armed Criminal Group (KKB) around Bilorai Airport, Sugapa,.
The Head of Operation Peace Carstensz, Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, confirmed that shots were fired from the direction of the airport's old terminal, which is no longer in use. The incident resulted in no casualties or material damage.
"Although there were no casualties, we remain vigilant and continue to implement security measures to ensure the situation remains conducive, especially in the lead-up to the 80th anniversary of Indonesian Independence," said Brigadier General Faizal in a written statement received in Timika on Thursday.
Four shots were heard while Intan Jaya Police and TNI Kopasgat personnel were on guard around the airport area.
The joint forces responded with return fire and a chase towards Kali Wabu, but the two perpetrators carrying pistols managed to escape into the forest area.
The action is strongly suspected to be a form of revenge for the death of one of the KKB leaders, Enos Tipagau, during a law enforcement operation by the Cartenz Peace Task Force on July 5 in Baitapa Village, Sugapa District.
Apart from the motive of revenge, the authorities suspect that this action was aimed at creating security instability ahead of the national agenda of the commemoration of the Indonesian Independence Day on August 17.
The Deputy Chief of the Cartenz Peace Operation, Senior Commissioner Adarma Sinaga, added that authorities will continue to maintain intensive security at vulnerable points to ensure that national agendas and community activities are not disrupted.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Cartenz Peace Operations Public Relations Task Force, Senior Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, urged the public to remain calm and not be provoked. He also urged residents to immediately report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.
"Community cooperation is crucial in maintaining security. We hope all elements will remain united in maintaining peace in Intan Jaya," said Yusuf.
