Cartenz Peace Task Force Reveals KKB Bakusip Suspected of Burning AMA Plane, Had Threatened Flights in Yahukimo

The Cartenz Peace Task Force has disclosed preliminary findings regarding the shooting and burning of a Pilatus PK-RCY aircraft belonging to PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) at Balinggama Airstrip, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan. Authorities suspect the action was carried out by the Bakusip armed criminal group (KKB), which had previously issued threats against aviation activities in the region.

Head of the Law Enforcement Task Force for Operation Damai Cartenz, Police Grand Commissioner I.G.G. Era Adinata, stated that initial identification points to a group led by M. Mbalingga. ‘Based on the preliminary investigation, we conclude that the action was carried out by the Bakusip KKB. This is a new group led by M. Mbalingga,’ Era said in a statement on Saturday, 4 July 2026.

According to Era, M. Mbalingga had claimed in several social media posts to be part of a group led by Elkius Kobak in the Yahukimo region. However, investigators are still examining the relationship between the Bakusip group and Elkius Kobak’s group. ‘Shortly after the incident, M. Mbalingga issued a statement claiming responsibility for the action. Not long after, Elkius Kobak also issued a similar statement,’ he said.

The Cartenz Peace Task Force also obtained photographic documentation showing a person standing on the wreckage of the burnt PT AMA aircraft. Identification results confirmed that the individual in the photo is M. Mbalingga. ‘Based on the profile we have, this group is classified as a new group, and their weaponry is still being identified by the Ops Damai Cartenz 2026 team,’ Era added.

In addition to identifying the suspected perpetrators, the task force revealed that the group had previously issued threats against aviation activities in the area they claim as their operational territory. Investigators are currently probing the motive behind the attack, which resulted in the aircraft being burnt and the pilot’s death. ‘Investigators stated that the group had previously issued threats against aviation activities entering the area they claim as their operational territory,’ Era explained. The investigation is still ongoing to uncover the full sequence of events, including the motive and all parties involved in the action.