Jayapura (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s National Police Commission (Kompolnas) on Monday urged an immediate end to the sale of firearms and ammunition in Papua, warning that such practices endanger both civilians and security personnel.

Kompolnas Commissioner Mohammad Chairul Anam said supplying weapons to armed groups risks fueling further bloodshed and instability in the region.

“If these sales continue, they will inevitably cause casualties and spark wider violence,” he said, stressing that offenders must face firm legal consequences.

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He also called on police officers in Papua to carry out operations with a humane and dialog-based approach to help build trust and security in local communities.

Kompolnas confirmed receiving several reports of illegal arms sales but noted that investigations showed the cases were already under police handling.

Earlier, Papua police uncovered a network trafficking firearms and ammunition. Authorities arrested seven suspects and confiscated several weapons, including long- and short-barrel guns, improvised firearms, and thousands of rounds of various calibers.

Officials said the operation was part of a broader effort to curb the circulation of illegal arms and strengthen public safety across Papua.

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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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