In a resolute demonstration of its commitment to national unity and security, Indonesia’s Wamena District Court on July 22, 2025, sentenced Aske Mabel, a former Papuan police brigadier turned TPNPB-OPM commander, to eight years in prison for stealing police weapons, illegally possessing firearms, and orchestrating violent crimes. The landmark ruling showcases Jakarta’s unwavering resolve to uphold justice and restore peace in Papua’s troubled highlands.
From Officer to Outlaw
Aske Mabel, a second-brigadier in the Yalimo police force, went rogue on June 4, 2024, decamping with four AK-variant rifles and 60 rounds of ammunition from the Yalimo Police armory, marking a radical turn from protector to perpetrator. Dismissed from service on December 27, 2024, for his heinous crimes, he was accused of betraying his oath and weaponizing TPNPB-OPM to fuel violence against society and state.
A Trail of Bloodshed
In command of an TPNPB-OPM associated KKB faction operating in the Yalimo and Balim highlands, Mabel was allegedly involved at least 10 violent incidents, including shootings, arson, abductions, and bombings—killing six individuals, among them three civilians and a member of the Damai Cartenz task force, Briptu Iqbal Anwar Arif, shot on January 17, 2025. Notable attacks included
- Fatal shootings of two woodcutters, Efraim and Abdeno Todona, on January 8, 2025.
- Assassination of Briptu Iqbal Arif while on patrol on the Trans-Papua route.
- Multiple arson attacks—burning of logging company offices and local buildings in late 2024 leading into early 2025.
These crimes not only disrupted public safety but also deeply affected rural communities already vulnerable to political instability.
Takedown Amid Harsh Terrain
On February 19, 2025, a joint operation by the Damai Cartenz Task Force and local police led by Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani cornered Mabel in Abenaho District. Mabel attempted escape and was wounded in the leg before being subdued. Authorities recovered two stolen rifles and dozens of ammunition rounds—part of the arsenal he used to terrorize communities and mount armed resistance.
His accomplice, Okoni Siep (alias Nikson Matuan), was earlier detained on February 2, 2025, in Elelim District, with two stolen AK-2000P rifles and magazines seized.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
In a decisive verdict delivered on July 22, 2025, the Wamena District Court found Aske Mabel guilty of violating:
- Article 363 of the Criminal Code for theft, including stealing four police rifles,
- Emergency Law No. 12/1951 for unlawful firearm possession and use.
Presiding Judge Hirmawan Agung Wicaksono took into account Mabel’s admission of guilt, his trajectory from law enforcer to rebel, and the gravity of his actions. Despite prosecutors seeking a nine-year sentence, the court settled on eight years—the defendant’s expression of remorse borrowing a year in mitigation.
Court spokesperson Saifullah Anwar praised the verdict as both firm and fair, designed to deter similar betrayals by state officials.
Institutional Discipline and Message of Zero Tolerance
Papua Police Chief Inspector General Patrige Renwarin emphasized that Mabel was expelled dishonorably on December 27, 2024 following code-of-ethics breaches during his escape and weapon theft. The joint disciplinary and legal actions signal an uncompromising crackdown on rogue elements within security services.
Brig. Gen. Ramadhani, head of the Damai Cartenz Task Force, called the arrest a “crucial step to curb armed violence and restore peace” in Papua’s mountainous districts.
Together, these responses underscore a central government stance: no privileged leniency for those who misuse authority and endanger public safety.
Reassurance for Communities
Local reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Leaders in Yalimo, Elelim, and surrounding areas expressed relief that a dangerous insurgent network has been dismantled. A local NGO spokesperson stated:
“This sentencing reassures our people that the state remains committed to safeguarding communities, not letting fear and violence dominate their lives.”
The conviction also spurred expanded outreach efforts: police patrols are being stepped up, checkpoints tightened, and community liaison programs launched to promote cooperation and build trust at the grassroots level.
Holistic Approach: Justice, Development, and Dialogue
Jakarta’s strategy in Papua balances firm enforcement with comprehensive development and community engagement:
- Security enforcement through Damai Cartenz, with increased patrols and weapon seizures, has reduced violent incidents significantly.
- Socio-economic investment in infrastructure, health, education, and connectivity supports underserved districts.
- Local empowerment, including customary rights recognition, participatory governance, and support for non-violent political expression, ensures cultural sensitivities are respected.
- Dialogue platforms involving church leaders, customary heads, civil society, and security forces emphasize peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
By pairing judicial accountability with long-term vision, Indonesia aims for a resilient peace—anchored in justice, recognition, and development.
Beyond This Case: Lessons for Institutional Integrity
The Aske Mabel case offers critical insights for national security institutions:
- Internal monitoring must be strengthened to prevent radicalization within ranks.
- Transparency and accountability in disciplinary procedures are essential to reduce insider threats.
- Professionalism and morale-building initiatives can deter potential defections.
- Inter-agency cooperation, exemplified by Damai Cartenz, enhances field efficiency in remote regions.
These measures are central to preventing similar cases and ensuring the firearms entrusted to security forces are never used against the nation they are meant to protect.
Looking Ahead: Sustained Peace and National Unity
The imprisonment of Aske Mabel symbolizes Indonesia’s deeper resolve to uphold rule of law over chaos and institutional order over rogue insubordination. But long-lasting peace in Papua depends on several continuous strands:
- Strengthening justice: Ongoing trials of other militants and ensuring weapons are taken out of circulation.
- Community protection: Expanding village policing and intelligence-sharing with inhabitants.
- Civic trust: Embedding police in genuine community partnerships rather than militant presence alone.
- Continued development: Acceleration of infrastructure projects and public services to reduce local disaffection.
Conclusion
The eight‑year sentence for Aske Mabel achieves more than punishment—it asserts Indonesia’s sovereignty, justice, and public safety in a region long stricken by conflict. The legal outcome, coupled with institutional reforms and social outreach, paves the way for a new chapter in Papua—guided by accountability, inclusion, and shared development.
Indonesia’s message to its citizens is clear: those who betray the trust of the state and preempt public fear will be brought to justice. As communities in Papua begin to rebuild, the promise of lasting peace becomes more attainable—underpinned by law enforcement, judicial fairness, and unity in diversity.