Jayapura, Jubi – The body of First Pvt. Ferdian Dwi Sukma, a personnel of the 143/Tri Wira Eka Jaya Infantry Battalion, was found dead in Digoel River, Bintang Mountains Regency, Central Papua Province. The body was evacuated to Jayapura City on Monday, January 30, 2023.
Meanwhile, three members of the Bintang Mountains Police who were also swept away in the Digoel River have not been found.
Papua Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Ignatius Benny Ady Prabowo said the body of Ferdian Dwi Sukma was evacuated using a helicopter, the Heli Bell 142 EP-HA 5185 piloted by Maj. Capt. M Iqbal.
“After arriving in Sentani, the body will be taken to Marthen Indey Hospital for an autopsy,” Benny said in Jayapura City on Monday.
According to Benny, Ferdian’s body will be flown to his hometown in Klaten Regency, Central Java Province, on Tuesday, January 31, 2023.
Previously on Saturday, at around 11.20 a.m. Papua time, Ferdian and three other members of the Bintang Mountains Police fell into the Digoel River while crossing a suspension bridge in Iwur District. The three policemen who went missing are First Brig. Yohanes Matheus, Second Brig. Risman Rahman, and Second Brig. Stevan Randongkir.
When asked about the search for the three policemen, Benny said that the Idonesian Military (TNI) and Police, as well as the community were still looking for them. The search is conducted by combing the banks of the Digoel River, assisted by drones and boats.
“Until now, the team is still working along the river to find the bodies. We ask for help and prayers from the entire community so the victims can be found soon,” he said. (*)
