Mimika Police Confirm 9 Teenage Girls Held Hostage by Armed Group in Jila

The Mimika Resort Police have confirmed the hostage-taking of nine civilian girls in the Jila District of Mimika Regency, Central Papua. The victims, all teenagers, were reportedly abducted by an armed group.

According to Mimika Resort Police Chief AKBP Alredo Agustinus Rumbiak, information gathered from police members in Jila and corroborated by victim families indicates that nine individuals were taken. The ages of the hostages range from 13 to 17 years old.

Among the nine hostages identified are Nemerina Wamang, 17, who is reportedly in the early stages of pregnancy; Alin Mesawarol, a sixth-grade elementary student; Nopi Aim, a fourth-grade student; and Opinte Meswaro, a third-grade student. The other five hostages are Yonita Senawatme (18), Meria Nibilingame (15), Wena Katagame (18), Ilimin Onawame (18), and Miante Nibilingame (13). All are residents of the Jila District.

In response to the incident, the Mimika Resort Police are implementing strategic measures. An initial step involved processing the crime scene to gather evidence and statements. Additionally, police presence has been reinforced in the Jila Police Sector, with backup requested from the Brimob Battalion B.

The police are actively working to resolve the situation and ensure the safe return of the hostages.