Wamena – Highland Papua — The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has once again affirmed its firm stance on upholding the law without favoritism, as demonstrated in the case of former police officer Aske Mabel. The Wamena Class II B District Court sentenced Aske to eight years in prison after he was proven guilty of stealing four firearms from the Yalimo Police Department’s armory last year.
The sentence is one year lighter than the nine-year prison term requested by the public prosecutor. Dean Ginting, spokesperson for the Wamena District Court, explained that the panel of judges based their decision on the legal facts presented during the trial, rather than solely relying on the prosecutor’s demands.
“The judges act independently. The verdict was determined by considering the full scope of the trial proceedings, including the defendant’s admission and request for leniency,” Dean told reporters on Tuesday (July 22, 2025).
It was revealed that Aske Mabel admitted his wrongdoing in court and issued an apology along with a verbal plea for a reduced sentence, which contributed to the judges’ final decision.
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, Police Commissioner Adarma Sinaga, S.I.K., M.Hum., stressed that Polri would not tolerate any betrayal of the institution, particularly when it poses a threat to national security.
“An insider stealing weapons from the institution is a grave act of betrayal. Regardless of who commits it, legal action will be taken. This is part of our firm commitment to maintaining the integrity of Polri and public safety,” Brig. Gen. Faizal asserted.
Responding to criticism from Aske’s legal team regarding the arrest operation conducted by the Cartenz Peace Task Force, Brig. Gen. Faizal emphasized that the mission was carried out professionally and in accordance with operational procedures suited to on-the-ground realities.
“The arrest was based on tactical assessments and threat levels at the time. We always prioritize the safety of our officers and the community,” he added.
In a separate statement, Head of Public Relations for the Cartenz Peace Task Force, Police Commissioner Dr. Yusuf Sutejo, S.I.K., M.T., reminded all Polri personnel in the Papuan highlands to remain loyal and disciplined in carrying out their duties.
“We urge all members to stay vigilant and not be influenced by elements seeking to create division. Our primary duty is to ensure public safety and peace,” he said.
He also called on the public to take an active role in maintaining security and stability in Papua by cooperating with security forces and promptly reporting any misuse of firearms or suspicious activity in their surroundings.
