Indonesian military operations against TPNPB-OPM in Papua

The Indonesian military (TNI) has conducted operations in Papua resulting in the deaths of high-ranking TPNPB-OPM commanders.

In late September, the TNI confirmed the death of Hermanus Hogajau, commander of the TPNPB-OPM Kodap III Balamai Dulla, during a clash in the Agisiga Subdistrict of Intan Jaya. Military officials identified Hogajau as a violent figure accused of human rights abuses, including kidnapping and the burning of schools and churches. He was killed alongside three subordinates following an engagement in which the military reported Hogajau opened fire with a machine gun.

In early October, TNI forces killed two additional commanders, Arso Aisnak and Yohanes KY, during an operation in the Aifat District of Maybrat Regency. These individuals were part of the Kodap IV Sorong Raya group. The military utilized thermal technology for night infiltrations during this operation. Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto stated that while the military will take firm action, operations must prioritize civilian protection and adhere to legal corridors, citing the principle ‘salus populi suprema lex esto’ (the safety of the people is the highest law).

On October 9, 2026, during ‘Operation Badai Kasuari 3.10’, TNI personnel from Koops TNI Habema engaged in a firefight with members of the Kodap IV/Sorong Raya near the Frambu River in the Aifat Timur District of Maybrat Regency. Military officials reported that three OPM members were killed. One individual, identified as Manfred Fatem, the OPM Operations Commander for Kodap IV/Sorong Raya, was recovered at the scene. Two others, Yesias Fatem and Antonius Assem, were reportedly swept away by river currents and remain missing. Security forces seized an AK-101 firearm, ammunition, mobile phones, and various OPM attributes and documentation.