Brig. Gen. Faizal Says Smart Air Aircraft Was Shot at by 20 KKB Members

Damai Cartenz Task Force Operations Commander Brig. Gen. (Pol.) Faizal Rahmadani said crime scene investigation results indicate that the attack and shooting on the Smart Air aircraft at Karowai Airstrip was carried out by 20 KKB members.

The KKB members reportedly emerged from a lodging facility on the edge of the airstrip and opened fire on the aircraft, causing passengers and crew to flee the plane.

The shooting of the Smart Air aircraft with flight number PK-SNR occurred as the plane was about to continue its flight to Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, on Wednesday, 11 February 2026.

He identified the attackers as the Kanibal and Semut Merah KKB groups led by Elkius Kobak from Yahukimo.

The crime scene investigation also revealed 13 bullet impact points on the body of the ill-fated aircraft, and the team recorded 23 evidence markers.

Witnesses also revealed that the shooting began when the Smart Air aircraft, which had landed at approximately 10:30 AM Eastern Indonesia Time (WIT) on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, at Koroway Batu Airstrip, was about to continue its flight to Dekai.

The KKB suddenly appeared and opened fire while the Smart Air pilot was starting the engine, causing passengers and crew to exit the aircraft to save themselves.

According to him, the KKB then chased and shot both crew members until they died. Their remains have since been laid to rest in their respective hometowns.

The witnesses claimed they did not recognize the perpetrators, who are suspected to not be Korowai locals.

The Damai Cartenz Task Force is currently carrying out law enforcement against the perpetrators.