Mulia, Puncak Jaya – Violent clashes between supporters of regional head election (Pilkada) candidates in Puncak Jaya Regency have resulted in at least 12 fatalities, hundreds injured, and widespread property destruction. The incidents occurred between November 27, 2024, and April 4, 2025.
The Head of Operation Peace Cartenz-2025, Brigadier General of Police Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., accompanied by Deputy Chief of Operations Commissioner Adarma Sinaga, S.I.K., M.Hum., stated that the clashes broke out between the supporters of candidate pair 01 and candidate pair 02.
“Based on our data, there were 12 confirmed fatalities. Eight of them were supporters of candidate pair 01,” said Brig. Gen. Faizal in a written statement.
In addition to the deaths, 658 people were reported injured, mostly from arrow wounds. Of those, 423 were supporters of candidate pair 01, and 230 were from candidate pair 02.
Material losses were also significant. A total of 201 buildings were set ablaze, including 196 residential homes, one elementary school (Pruleme Elementary School behind Toba Jaya), the Trikora village hall, the Irimuli district office, the office of the Gelora Party, and the Pagaleme village office.
Brig. Gen. Faizal further revealed that some of the fatalities were caused by gunfire believed to have been carried out by members of the Armed Criminal Group (KKB), who exploited the tense political situation to execute their attacks.
“This is a serious concern for us, as the KKB deliberately took advantage of the political unrest to carry out violent acts,” he said.
Meanwhile, Head of Public Relations for Operation Peace Cartenz-2025, Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., called on the public to help maintain security and order amid the escalating political tensions.
“We urge all residents of Puncak Jaya to work together in preserving public order and security to ensure a peaceful and harmonious environment. Security is our shared responsibility,” Commissioner Yusuf emphasized.
This appeal serves as a preventive measure to avoid further violence that could destabilize security and hinder development in the Puncak Jaya region.
