Papuaaround.com – Security forces in Papua have announced the death of Lamek Alipky Taplo, the commander of the Ngalum Kupel faction of the separatist group in the Papua Highlands. Lamek was reportedly killed alongside three other members of the armed wing during a military assault on their stronghold in Kiwirok District, Pegunungan Bintang, on Sunday, October 19. The operation was carried out by the Joint Command for Papua Security (Koops Swasembada Papua) as part of ongoing efforts to curb separatist activities in the region.
Officials stated that the raid followed a series of intelligence reports indicating intensified armed movements led by Lamek Taplo. Authorities described the faction as an active group responsible for violent acts targeting civilians in several remote areas. According to military information received after the operation, the group had allegedly been engaged in terror, extortion, and intimidation campaigns around local communities near the border region.
The intelligence division of Koops Swasembada Papua said the assault aimed to restore stability and ensure the safety of residents in Kiwirok. The district has long been considered a vulnerable area due to difficult terrain, limited access, and recurring clashes involving armed separatist groups. Officials emphasized that the latest action was part of a broader security strategy focused on suppressing armed networks that threaten public safety.
Authorities also identified Lamek Taplo as one of the most active separatist figures in Pegunungan Bintang. Between 2020 and 2025, his faction was accused of orchestrating numerous violent incidents that resulted in civilian and military casualties. Based on military records, at least six people lost their lives and eight sustained serious injuries in a series of attacks attributed to the group. Additionally, various material losses were reported in connection with the conflict over the past five years.
Following the Sunday assault, security forces announced that conditions in Kiwirok have become increasingly stable. Joint patrols by military and police units have been deployed across strategic locations to prevent further disruptions. Authorities said they will continue conducting coordinated operations to secure the area and reassure local residents.
The removal of Lamek Taplo is being viewed by the military as a major setback for separatist operations in the region. Despite this claim, security analysts note that tensions in several parts of Papua remain high. Armed groups are believed to still possess mobility in other districts, raising concerns that retaliation efforts or sporadic attacks may continue in the near future.
The government has repeatedly stated that its priority is to maintain order, protect civilians, and ensure that border communities are not subjected to fear or violence. Meanwhile, monitoring efforts will continue as authorities attempt to prevent an escalation of conflict and support long-term peace initiatives in the Papua Highlands.
