2 Residents Shot at Baliem Valley Festival; TNI-Polri Hunt Suspect
Both victims are in stable condition at RSUD Wamena, while police have not yet confirmed which armed group carried out the attack.
Two civilians were wounded by gunfire while on their way to watch the closing of the 2026 Baliem Valley Cultural Festival in Walesi District, Jayawijaya Regency, Highland Papua, on Saturday (8/8). TNI-Polri are now investigating the shooter, who is suspected to be from a Kelompok Kriminal Bersenjata. Korem 172/PWY Commander Brig. Gen. Robbi Suryadi said the initial priority for security forces was to protect residents around the festival site, so the identity of the attacking group has not been confirmed. The two victims, Laode Muhammad (43) and Salbia (50), were evacuated to RSUD Wamena. Laode suffered a gunshot wound to the knee, while Salbia was hit in the right thigh. Robbi said both are in stable condition.