Jayapura, Jubi – The Papua Police initiated an investigation into the logistics distribution network of the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) armed group operating in Papua.
On Friday, September 22, 2023, Papua Police chief Insp. Gen. Mathius Fakhiri said that investigators were actively progressing with the inquiry into the YT case, in which YT, a motorcycle and speedboat taxi driver, was suspected of being involved in the distribution of food supplies and the collection of funds for the TPNPB group based in Nduga Regency, led by Egianus Kogoya.
Fakhiri emphasized the need to understand and map out the distribution of goods for the TPNPB to enable security forces to disrupt their supply routes.
“We need to investigate the logistics flow slowly, meticulously, and with great care. We will sever these connections,” he said.
Furthermore, Fakhiri highlighted that the investigation would not be limited to the food supply for Egianus Kogoya’s group but would also encompass the procurement and supply of firearms and ammunition to them.
YT was apprehended by the Cartenz Peace Task Force in Agats, the capital of Asmat Regency, South Papua Province, on September 7, 2023.
Despite the apprehension of several individuals suspected of being affiliated with Egianus Kogoya’s group, Fakhiri reminded his personnel to exercise caution and prioritize accuracy. He underscored the importance of preventing wrongful arrests that could lead to misleading news reports.
“Hence, I urge all personnel in the field to exercise extreme caution. If you are certain that they are part of the TPNPB group, do not hesitate, make the arrest immediately,” he said. (*)
