A fatal gunfight erupted near the operations of PT Freeport Indonesia in Mimika Regency, Papua, on Wednesday, February 11th, resulting in the tragic death of one Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) member. The perpetrators of this violent incident are strongly suspected to be members of the Free Papua Movement (OPM).
The fallen soldier was identified as Sergeant AC, a dedicated serviceman from Koramil 1710-04/Tembagapura, Kodim 1710/Mimika. According to Kapendam XVII/Cenderawasih Letkol Inf Tri Purwanto, Sergeant AC was part of a vehicle convoy belonging to PT Freeport Indonesia at Mile Post 50 when the ambush occurred. In addition to the tragic loss of Sergeant AC, another TNI member sustained injuries, experiencing bleeding from the nose, while a KPI PT Freeport Indonesia employee suffered a gunshot wound. Both injured victims are currently receiving intensive medical treatment.
“It is true that a gunfight incident occurred at Mile Post 50 Area PT FI. Currently, all victims have been evacuated and are receiving optimal medical attention,” stated Tri Purwanto, as quoted on Thursday, February 12th. He underscored the TNI’s unwavering commitment to enhancing vigilance across several vulnerable points, particularly around vital national assets like the Freeport complex. This intensified security measure aims to guarantee the safety and security of both the local community and the invaluable workforce operating in the region.
Purwanto further confirmed that security forces are actively pursuing the perpetrators responsible for the attack. “We emphasize that security forces are hunting the perpetrators to hold them accountable for their actions. We also continue to coordinate with authorities and relevant parties to ensure security stability in the area,” he asserted, highlighting the collaborative efforts to restore peace and order in the affected region.
PT Freeport Indonesia Responds
In a separate statement, PT Freeport Indonesia confirmed the shooting incident, which took place around 3:00 PM Eastern Indonesia Time (WIT) at Mile Post 50, a critical section of the main road leading to Tembagapura. “One of our colleagues suffered injuries and is currently receiving treatment from our medical team,” stated Katri Krisnati, VP Corporate Communications for PT Freeport Indonesia.
Following the incident, the company announced the temporary closure of road access to Tembagapura. Freeport Indonesia reaffirmed its paramount commitment to the safety and security of all its employees and stakeholders within its operational areas. The company stressed its continuous coordination with government security forces to address the situation effectively. “We continue to coordinate with government security forces regarding this matter,” Katri Krisnati reiterated, emphasizing the joint effort to safeguard personnel and operations amidst the ongoing security challenge.
Summary
A fatal shooting incident occurred near PT Freeport Indonesia’s operations in Mimika Regency, Papua, on Wednesday, February 11th, at Mile Post 50. The attack, strongly suspected to be carried out by the Free Papua Movement (OPM), resulted in the death of one Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) member, Sergeant AC. Additionally, another TNI member sustained injuries, and a PT Freeport Indonesia employee suffered a gunshot wound, both receiving medical treatment.
Following the incident, security forces confirmed they are actively pursuing the perpetrators and intensifying vigilance in the area to ensure safety. PT Freeport Indonesia also confirmed the shooting, stating they have temporarily closed road access to Tembagapura. The company emphasized its commitment to employee safety and continues to coordinate closely with government security forces to manage the situation.