Inp.polri.go.id - Jayapura. Two gold miners who survived an attack by an armed criminal group (KKB) in Yahukimo Regency, Papua Mountains, have been evacuated to Dekai, Damai Cartenz Task Force confirmed on Wednesday (9/4/2025).

The survivors were airlifted to Dekai by the Damai Cartenz Task Force’s enforcement team and immediately taken to the Yahukimo Sub-regional Police Headquarters for questioning.

"From these two witnesses, we hope to gather key information regarding the attack that killed their fellow miners," said Brigadier General Faizal Rahmadani, the Head of Damai Cartenz Operations, confirming that the number of the victims is not yet validated.

Preliminary reports indicate that several other miners managed to escape. They are currently located in Mabul Village, Buluanop District, Asmat Regency, South Papua.

The remote mining site where the attack occurred is accessible only by helicopter from Dekai or by motorboat from Asmat, due to its position along the border between the two regencies.

Separately, Yahukimo Military Commander Lt. Col. Tommy Yudistyo confirmed the group responsible was led by Elkius Kobak, a known figure within the separatist network. 

He also denied rumors that the victims were members of the Indonesian military. 

“The victims were not military personnel. Claims made by the separatists are false and should be treated as disinformation,” Commander Tommy.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)