Local media sources say a shipment of SAGL grenade launchers arrived in Indonesia in 2017, destined to be used by BRIMOB. Other sources indicate that the weapons came with a variety of ammunition, including tear gas, smoke, and “sharp”, which appears to consist of small metal pellets and were specifically destined for Papua and Poso.
The import of the SAGL grenade launchers caused contraversy in Indonesia after the shipment was detained at the docks. The import had bypassed the official military channels for arms imports. The seizure of the weapons made the news and highlighted the militarisation of police, an issue of concern for human rights and land rights activists across Indonesia as well as West Papua. The BriMob commander was asked to explain to national media why the police force required high-powered grenade launchers.