Wamena — The Indonesian National Police (Polri), through the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force, has once again demonstrated its firm commitment to upholding the law—even when violations are committed by former members of the force. The Wamena Class II B District Court has sentenced Aske Mabel, a former member of the Yalimo Police Department, to eight years in prison for stealing four firearms from the Yalimo Police weapons storage facility last year.
The sentence is one year less than the nine-year prison term sought by the public prosecutor. Speaking on the matter, Dean Ginting, Public Relations Officer for the Wamena District Court, stated that the judges based their decision on the legal facts revealed during the trial, not solely on the prosecution’s demands.
“The prosecutor’s recommendation is not binding for the panel of judges. The judges are independent in their decisions and the eight-year sentence reflects the evidence and testimonies presented in court,” Dean told reporters at the courthouse on Tuesday (July 22, 2025).
He added that the defendant had admitted to the crime and verbally requested leniency, which was taken into consideration during sentencing.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Cartenz Peace Operation, Brigadier General Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., accompanied by Deputy Chief of Operations Commissioner Adarma Sinaga, S.I.K., M.Hum., emphasized that Polri will not tolerate any form of betrayal against the institution—especially those that endanger national security.
“Stealing firearms from the institution is a very serious offense. We do not discriminate—anyone who commits such an act will face legal consequences. This is part of our commitment to uphold the integrity of Polri and ensure public safety,” stated Brig. Gen. Faizal.
In response to concerns raised by the defense team over the arrest of Aske Mabel by the Cartenz Peace Task Force, Faizal assured that all operations are conducted carefully and in accordance with standard procedures.
“The arrest was carried out based on tactical assessments and threats in the field. We are open to evaluations, but the safety of officers and the public will always be our top priority,” he added.
Separately, Head of Public Relations for the Cartenz Peace Task Force, Commissioner Dr. Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., called on all Polri personnel in the Papuan highlands to remain loyal and disciplined in performing their duties.
“We urge all members not to be swayed by elements seeking to sow division. Our duty is to maintain public security and order—not the opposite,” said Commissioner Yusuf.
He also stressed the vital role of community participation in preserving security and stability in Papua, urging residents to collaborate with authorities and report any misuse of firearms or suspicious activities.
