Inp.polri.go.id - Sorong. The Southwest Papua Regional Police arrested 12 suspects on Thursday (19/3/2026) linked to a brutal assault on four healthcare workers in Bamusbama, Tambrauw Regency. 

The joint operation, involving regional and local task forces, followed a Monday morning ambush in Jokbu Village that left two medical professionals dead.

"Twelve people suspected of involvement in the attack against healthcare workers have been secured and are currently undergoing intensive examination," said Senior Inspector Jenny Setya Agustin Hengkelare, the Acting Head of Public Relations for the Southwest Papua Regional Police, as cited by antaranews.com.

She said that the police collected evidence from 15 witnesses and a raid that uncovered a significant cache of weapons, including air rifles, machetes, bows, and arrows. Among those detained are local officials, including the heads of Banfot and Bamusbama villages, as well as a civil servant. 

Investigators are currently conducting a "scientific crime investigation" to determine if the suspects have ties to armed criminal groups (KKB) or specific insurgent motives. While security has been tightened in the Bamusbama district, officials urge the public to remain calm and support the ongoing legal process to ensure justice for the fallen medical personnel.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)