Warrant Officer Bayani is a native Papuan who is well-known in KOPASSUS for his calm demeanor, boldness, and remarkable shooting and tracking abilities. During the 1996 Mapenduma hostage rescue operation, conflicting intelligence was a challenge. In a moment of doubt, I turned to Bayani for his expertise. Despite British intelligence experts’ information pointing to a specific location, Bayani dismissed it, citing the impracticality of the area due to the lack of water. He proved to be a crucial asset in the mission.
Bayani, recommended to me by Major Zacky Anwar, was revered for his exceptional field skills, physical strength, and stealth capabilities. Known as the “Papuan Rambo,” he was fearless in combat and could infiltrate enemy camps with ease. Despite his impressive military prowess, Bayani was also known for his rebellious nature, often finding himself in trouble with authorities.
The story I want to share revolves around the 1996 Mapenduma military operation, where I was tasked with rescuing 26 researchers held hostage by the separatist Free Papua Movement in the treacherous jungle of Baliem Valley, Papua. Leading a team of expert trackers, including native Papuan troops under Bayani’s command, we embarked on a perilous mission to locate and rescue the hostages.
The operation was marred by challenges, including the lack of advanced equipment and real-time intelligence data. With limited resources, we relied heavily on human intelligence and the expertise of our troops. Despite the odds, the mission was a success, a rarity in jungle hostage rescues. The Kasuari Team, led by Bayani, played a crucial role in tracking down the hostage-takers and securing the captives.
As the operation unfolded, crucial information from international advisers helped pinpoint the exact location of the hostages. With a coordinated effort and strategic planning, we were able to rescue the hostages and neutralize the threat posed by the OPM. The success of the mission was a testament to the bravery and skill of our team, especially Bayani, whose expertise and determination were instrumental in the operation’s success.