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| Civilian Killed in Yahukimo: Armed Group Suspected, Indonesian Police Launch Full Investigation. |
Yahukimo, Highland Papua – A wave of shock and grief has swept through Yahukimo Regency following the tragic murder of a 24-year-old civil servant, Joy Jonathan Boroh, on Friday, July 4, 2025. The incident occurred in Dekai District around 4:00 PM local time and has sparked a swift response from Indonesian security forces.
Joy, a contract employee with the Yahukimo regional government, was found dead with multiple stab wounds on his neck, underarms, chest, back, and hands—indicating a brutal and intentional act of violence.
Immediate Response from Damai Cartenz Task Force
Upon receiving an internal alert from the Yahukimo Police Department, personnel from Operation Damai Cartenz immediately deployed to the scene. Arriving around 4:28 PM, the team secured the crime scene and transported the victim’s body to Dekai Regional Hospital for formal identification.
Authorities recovered key evidence at the scene, including a Honda Beat Street motorcycle, a cellphone, flip-flops, a motorcycle mirror, and other personal belongings. One eyewitness has also provided an initial statement to assist the investigation.
Strong Suspicion of Armed Separatist Group Involvement
According to Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, Head of the Damai Cartenz Task Force, initial findings point to the involvement of an armed criminal group (KKB) led by Elkius Kobak.
“We have deployed a dedicated team to Yahukimo to conduct a thorough investigation. Law enforcement will be pursued until the perpetrator is arrested and prosecuted according to Indonesian law,” he stated.
These suspicions are further reinforced by a social media statement from Sebby Sambom, who claims to be a spokesperson for the TPNPB-OPM (a separatist group), in which he falsely claimed responsibility for killing an Indonesian military member.
“That statement is a complete lie. The victim was a civilian working as a government employee, not a soldier,” Brigadier General Faizal clarified.
Ongoing Investigation and Evidence Gathering
The investigation is now in full swing. The Yahukimo Police’s criminal investigation unit (Satreskrim) is scheduled to conduct a more detailed forensic examination of the scene on Saturday, July 5, 2025, in an effort to collect more evidence and identify those responsible.
Meanwhile, Damai Cartenz Task Force Public Relations Chief, Police Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, urged local residents to remain calm and not be swayed by false information spreading on social media or from certain groups.
“We call on the people of Yahukimo to stay alert but not panic. Trust the authorities to handle the case professionally. If anyone has relevant information, please report it immediately,” he said.
Security Conditions in the Area Remain Stable
Despite the tragic event, the current situation around the scene remains under control. Damai Cartenz Task Force, in coordination with the local police, continues to conduct regular patrols and intelligence operations to ensure stability and bring those responsible to justice.
The killing of Joy Jonathan Boroh has triggered serious legal action, with strong indications pointing to separatist involvement. Authorities continue to call for public cooperation, vigilance, and calm as the investigation progresses. The case highlights ongoing security challenges in Highland Papua and underscores the importance of reliable law enforcement in maintaining peace in the region.