Inp.polri.go.id - Manokwari.  Kasuari Military Command (Kodam) has deployed troops  to assist in the search for the Teluk Bintuni Police Sub-regional Police Chief of Criminal Investigation Unit Assistant Senior Inspector Tomi Samuel Marbun, reported missing since 18 December 2024.

Colonel Syawaludin Abuhasan, the Kasuari Military Command Head ofi Public Information, confirmed on Saturday (21/12/2024)that the search operation continues, involving military and police forces, targeting the West Moskona District in Teluk Bintuni.

“Our personnel, supported by the Kapuas Task Force, are  searching. Updates will be shared as soon as available,” said Syawaludin, adding that the military command  is closely monitoring developments via the task force commander at the location.

Meanwhile, the Papua Peace Network (JDP) has urged the military and police to adopt socio-cultural and socio-anthropological approaches to address security concerns in West Papua. JDP highlighted recent armed clashes in West Moskona between security forces and the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), aiming to prevent further violence, especially ahead of Christmas.

Reportedly, 14 police personnel, including Chief Marbun, attempted to flee by boat during the conflict, originally there to escort villagers returning home.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)