Puncak, Papua — Violence has once again erupted in Puncak Regency. An armed assault was carried out by an Armed Criminal Group (KKB) led by Kalenak Murib, targeting civilian settlements in Lambera Village, Yugumoak District, on Wednesday morning (June 18, 2025) at approximately 09:00 WIT. The brutal attack resulted in three fatalities, four injuries, and the burning of at least 11 traditional Papuan houses known as honai.
A joint team from Sinak Police Sector and the Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2025 was immediately deployed to the location to evacuate victims and collect information from eyewitnesses. According to their accounts, the attack stemmed from internal conflict within the armed group. Kalenak Murib reportedly became enraged after discovering that his third wife had an affair with one of his own men, Minanggen Wijangge — who was later confirmed as one of the deceased.
Kalenak Murib and 23 of his armed men entered Lambera Village the day before, on Tuesday (June 17, 2025) around 16:00 WIT, carrying at least four long-barreled firearms. The sudden and violent attack sparked mass panic, forcing most residents to flee to neighboring districts Megeabume and Sinak for safety.
The identified injured victims are:
Amos Tabuni (gunshot wound to the right arm)
Anis Tabuni (gunshot wound to the left arm)
Amote Tabuni (head injury)
Perdus Tabuni (ricochet wound to the leg)
The deceased victims have been identified as:
Minanggen Wijangge
Patiago Tabuni
Oriup Murib
The Head of Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2025, Brigadier General of Police Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a crime against humanity.
“This is a barbaric act targeting innocent civilians. We will not remain silent. Operation Peace Cartenz will relentlessly pursue and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he stated firmly.
Meanwhile, the Head of Public Relations of Task Force Operation Peace Cartenz 2025, Chief Commissioner of Police Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., called on the public to remain calm and trust the authorities with the investigation and enforcement process.
“We urge all residents to stay calm and allow the authorities to handle the situation. Security patrols have been intensified and coordination with local district officials has been strengthened to ensure the safety of the community,” he said.
Security efforts in Yugumoak District and surrounding areas are currently being tightened to prevent further escalation and to protect civilian lives.
