Papuaaround.com – A gunfight erupted between Indonesian military personnel from the Habema Task Force and an armed criminal group (KKB) in Unambunggu, Lanny Jaya Regency, Highland Papua, earlier this week. The operation resulted in the death of a key insurgent figure identified as Mayu Waliya, the Operational Commander of the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM) Kodap XII.
Commander of the Habema Task Force, Major General Lucky Avianto, confirmed that the clash occurred on Monday, October 6, and that the identity of the deceased was verified two days later through data recovered from a mobile phone found at the scene. The phone contained key information confirming Waliya’s position and activities within the separatist group.
“Based on the team’s findings, the individual killed was identified as Mayu Waliya, who served as the Operational Commander of Kodap XII/Lanny Jaya under the leadership of Purom Okiman Wenda,” Lucky explained in an official statement on Thursday, October 9, 2025.
Prior to the confrontation, on Sunday, October 5, the Habema Command successfully took control of one of the main headquarters belonging to the KKB Kodap XII/Lanny Jaya faction led by Purom Okiman Wenda. The stronghold, located deep in the mountainous area of Unambunggu, had reportedly served as the operational hub for planning and coordinating a series of violent attacks against both security personnel and local civilians.
Following the seizure of the site, intelligence reports indicated potential retaliatory movements by the armed group. The following day, insurgents launched a counterattack, which escalated into an armed confrontation with Indonesian forces. The exchange of fire resulted in Waliya’s death and the recovery of several crucial items from the battlefield.
During the post-operation sweep, the task force discovered multiple pieces of evidence, including combat equipment, ammunition of 7.62 and 5.56 mm caliber, a telescope, night vision goggles (NVG), handheld radios, mobile phones, and several strategic documents. Military personnel also found separatist insignia and a Morning Star flag, a symbol long associated with the Papuan independence movement.
Major General Lucky emphasized that the operation was conducted with a high level of discipline and precision. He stressed that all actions taken by the Habema Task Force followed strict engagement procedures and prioritized the safety of nearby civilians.
“The gunfight was a measured response to an armed assault initiated by the group. Our troops maintained combat discipline and acted within operational protocols to ensure both mission success and the protection of local residents,” he stated.
The military has continued to strengthen its presence in the region to prevent further attacks and safeguard vital infrastructure. The Papua highlands have long been a flashpoint for tensions between Indonesian security forces and separatist factions seeking independence. The death of Waliya is seen as a significant blow to the operational strength of the Kodap XII/Lanny Jaya faction, which has been active in organizing ambushes and intimidation of civilians.
Authorities are currently monitoring potential retaliatory actions from remaining members of the group. The Indonesian Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining security and stability across Papua while ensuring that operations remain within the framework of law and human rights principles.
As the situation develops, security forces continue to pursue other key figures associated with the faction led by Purom Okiman Wenda. Military sources describe the ongoing operation as part of a broader effort to neutralize insurgent networks and restore long-term peace in the region.
