Puncak, Central Papua – Despite a tense security situation in Ilaga on Saturday morning (May 24, 2025), Aminggaru Airport continued operations without disruption, thanks to the swift and decisive action of the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force (Satgas ODC). The task force successfully safeguarded the airport—considered a critical infrastructure in Puncak Regency—during a brief armed confrontation.
The incident began around 9:00 AM local time when patrol unit Belukar 5.6 heard gunfire from two separate locations near the airport. Assessing a potential threat to the aviation hub, the unit immediately conducted a sweep of the area and requested reinforcements from the Belukar Command Post.
Shortly thereafter, joint forces from Units Belukar and Delta arrived to strengthen the airport’s security perimeter. Although tensions briefly escalated, the situation remained under control. The airport successfully received a scheduled flight carrying the Regent of Puncak, who was then securely escorted by the task force to his official residence in Gome.
However, disturbances did not end there. While returning to the airport, task force members came under renewed gunfire near Ilame Bridge. Field reports indicated that one of the shooters was operating a civilian truck. Though the unit returned fire, they exercised tactical restraint and chose to withdraw and regroup to prevent further escalation and civilian harm.
Head of the Cartenz Peace Operation, Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, commended the personnel for their professionalism and prompt response during the emergency. He emphasized the strategic importance of securing transport infrastructure in conflict-prone areas.
“Airports are vital lifelines for mobility and public services. Securing Aminggaru during this incident reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to ensuring safety and stability in Papua,” said Brig. Gen. Faizal.
Addressing rumors circulating on social media that the Regent’s aircraft was targeted, Satgas ODC firmly denied the claims. They clarified that the shots were aimed at security personnel, not at the aircraft or its passengers.
Task Force Public Affairs Chief, Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, urged the public not to fall for misinformation and false narratives.
“We assure residents that the situation in Ilaga has returned to normal. We urge the community to remain calm, avoid provocation, and place their trust in the police and security forces,” he stated.
The task force confirmed that all 20 Belukar and 8 Delta personnel involved in the operation were unharmed. As a precaution, Satgas ODC continues to enhance patrols and security measures around key sites such as Ilaga Church and Ilaga Regional Hospital to anticipate further threats.
