Warrant Officer Bayani, a native Papuan, is highly respected in KOPASSUS for his calm demeanor, boldness, and exceptional shooting and tracking skills. During the 1996 Mapenduma hostage rescue operation, conflicting intelligence posed a challenge. Seeking advice from Bayani, he disregarded the British intelligence, insisting that the hostages could not be where the information suggested due to the lack of water in that area.
Bayani, recommended by Major Zacky Anwar, was known for his fieldcraft techniques, physical strength, and bravery. His infiltration of enemy camps resulted in the capture of numerous weapons and combatants. While his success in operations was commendable, Bayani often clashed with authorities due to his involvement in fights.
In the challenging mission to rescue hostages in the Papuan jungle, General Feisal Tanjung tasked a team led by the “Papuan Rambo” to track down the hostage-takers. Despite the lack of advanced equipment and topographic maps, the team relied on human intelligence and limited technology like GPS and satellite phones. With six potential target locations identified, the Kasuari Team was prepared as a backup plan to intercept the hostage-takers if needed.
The operation received a vital piece of information from British SAS advisers regarding the hostages’ location, confirmed through a beacon’s signal. Helicopters were deployed based on these coordinates, leading to the successful rescue of the hostages. Despite the challenges faced in the operation, Bayani’s expertise and courage played a crucial role in its success.
