Indonesian Marines Mourn Fallen Soldiers in Papua Gunfight

Jakarta, IDM – The Indonesian Marine Corps is mourning the loss of two soldiers, Marine Sergeant Anumerta Andi Suvio and Marine Private First Class Anumerta Elki Saputra, who were killed in a firefight with an armed criminal group (KKB) in Sori Village, South Aifat District, Maybrat Regency, South West Papua on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

Details of the Incident

According to the Head of the Naval Information Service (Kadispenal), First Fleet Admiral TNI Tunggul, the soldiers died while defending the country’s sovereignty. The incident occurred after personnel from the Habema Koops Task Force completed a routine patrol in Sori Village. The KKB group ambushed the patrol, initiating a shootout. Voi.id reports that another Marine, Kopda (Mar) Eko Sutikno, sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving intensive treatment.

Military Honors and Burial

A military ceremony was held at Brigif 1 Marine, Hartono Marine Barracks, Cilandak, South Jakarta, on Monday, March 23, 2026, led by the Commander of the Marine Corps, Lieutenant General TNI (Mar) Endi Supardi. Voi.id stated that the ceremony was filled with emotion as the Marine Corps paid its respects to the fallen soldiers.

The body of Marine Sergeant Anumerta Andi Suvio was transported to his hometown in Pangandaran Regency, West Java, for burial. Marine Private First Class Anumerta Elki Saputra’s remains were sent to Padang, West Sumatra, for a military burial.

Navy’s Commitment to Fallen Soldiers

Admiral Tunggul emphasized the Indonesian Navy’s commitment to honoring the sacrifices of the fallen soldiers and ensuring their families receive all entitled benefits. “Currently, our main focus is to provide the last tribute that is worthy of the country’s patriots, as well as ensuring that all the rights of the deceased and the families they left behind are properly fulfilled,” he said, as quoted by ANTARA. Voi.id

Recent Leadership Change in Marine Corps

This incident follows a recent change in leadership within the Marine Corps. In August 2025, Lieutenant General TNI (Mar) Endi Supardi was officially appointed as the Commander of the Marine Corps, becoming the first to hold the rank of Lieutenant General. Facebook