inp.polri.go.id - Jayapura. The 2026 Damai Cartenz Operation Task Force has again uncovered an illegal ammunition distribution network suspected of being linked to armed groups in Papua. The operation was carried out in stages from Wednesday, March 25, to Thursday, March 26, 2026.

The Vice Head of the 2026 Damai Cartenz Operation Public Relations Task Force, Superintendent Andria, when met by the media on Friday (3/27/2026), explained that during the operation, authorities successfully apprehended four suspects with the initials KO (45), SMM (40), HM (53), and AKW (51).

"The four suspects arrested had different roles in this network," he said.

These arrests are part of an expanded investigation into a previous case also related to an illegal weapons and ammunition distribution network in several regions of Papua.

Based on initial investigations, the three suspects—KO, SMM, and AKW—are suspected of acting as intermediaries or facilitators in the illegal ammunition transactions. Meanwhile, suspect HM is suspected of acting as the ammunition supplier or seller.

"To date, investigators are continuing their intensive investigation to uncover a broader network," explained Andria.

During the operation, officers also secured several pieces of evidence, including communication devices, vehicles, and homemade firearms suspected of being used in the illegal activity. 

Based on coordination with investigators, the suspects were charged under the provisions of the Criminal Code Number 1 of 2023, specifically Article 306 in conjunction with Article 20, which regulates the possession of illegal weapons and assistance in criminal acts.

The application of this article confirms that not only the main perpetrators, but also those who assist, facilitate, or act as intermediaries in the distribution of illegal weapons and ammunition can be held criminally liable under applicable law.

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