YAHUKIMO – Tension gripped Seradala Road KM 04 in Dekai District, Yahukimo Regency, on Saturday (14/2/2026) after two ambulances belonging to Aplim Community Health Center were nearly set ablaze. Amid the threat, residents gathered in front of their own health facility, determined to protect what they described as their only access to medical care.
The incident began on Saturday night at approximately 9:05 p.m. local time. Two unidentified individuals approached the Aplim Health Center residential complex and threatened to burn down the building along with the parked ambulances. The suspects were carrying diesel fuel in a 1.6-liter mineral water bottle.
According to witness Luter Matuan (40), Head of Kurima Village, the perpetrators poured diesel around the rear tires of the two ambulances—a white Triton and a white Arena APV with license plate PA 6434 Y.
“If the health center is burned, we will have nowhere to seek treatment,” Luter said, recalling the panic among residents that night.
Community members quickly gathered and attempted to negotiate to prevent the arson. In an effort to defuse the situation, the witness admitted he gave Rp500,000 to the suspects at the entrance of the health center. After receiving the money, the two individuals abandoned their plan and fled toward Seradala Road.
The following morning at 9:25 a.m., personnel from the Yahukimo Police Criminal Investigation Unit, supported by the Law Enforcement Task Force of Cartenz Peace Operation 2026 and led by IPTU Muhammad Mirwan, promptly responded to the scene. Officers conducted a crime scene investigation, secured evidence, and questioned witnesses.
At the location, investigators found a mineral water bottle suspected to contain residual diesel fuel and several strands of dry grass believed to have been soaked with fuel. Although no footprints were discovered, traces of diesel around the vehicle tires strengthened indications of an attempted arson.
After completing the crime scene examination, both ambulances were escorted to Dekai Regional Hospital to ensure the safety of public health services.
Head of Cartenz Peace Operation 2026, Brigjen Pol. Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, emphasized that authorities will not tolerate intimidation against public facilities.
“Healthcare facilities are a fundamental need of the community. We will not tolerate any threat to public services, especially those that endanger civilian safety. The case will be handled firmly and in accordance with the law,” he stated.
He added that the presence of security forces aims not only to enforce the law but also to ensure that residents can continue their daily activities without fear.
Meanwhile, Deputy Head of Cartenz Peace Operation 2026, Kombes Pol. Adarma Sinaga, said the rapid response of personnel on the ground was crucial in preventing escalation.
“As soon as the report was received, the team moved immediately. The ambulances were secured, evidence was collected, and witnesses were questioned. Swift action is essential to ensure healthcare services remain uninterrupted and the community does not feel intimidated,” he said.
The investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Police have advised witnesses to file official reports and are continuing to complete the necessary investigative procedures.
The incident underscores the vital importance of healthcare facilities in remote areas. When the ambulances were nearly burned, it was not merely vehicles at risk—but the community’s lifeline. Through sustained security measures and law enforcement, authorities hope to maintain stability in Dekai and ensure that public services continue to operate safely and without disruption.
