Cartenz Peace Task Force Speaks Out on PT AMA, Affirms Solely Humanitarian Mission

Kasatgas Humas Operasi Damai Cartenz-2026, Kombes Pol. Yusuf Sutejo, has addressed misleading narratives suggesting PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) was engaged in activities beyond humanitarian missions after the death of American pilot Captain Nicholas F. Goselin. He stated that the task force had communicated directly with PT AMA management and the Bishop of Jayapura. “Based on the information we obtained, PT AMA has been serving humanitarian and religious flights in Papua for 67 years. This is the first time they have experienced such a tragic incident,” he said in an official statement on Saturday. He stressed that PT AMA purely serves churches and communities in the interior regions of Papua. Meanwhile, Kasatgas Gakkum Ops Damai Cartenz, Kombes Pol I. G. G. Era Adinata, added that since the shooting, a series of investigations have been conducted, including witness examinations, interviews, information gathering, and social media monitoring. Based on preliminary findings, the attack was carried out by the Bakusip armed criminal group, a new faction led by M. Mbalingga. The individual claimed on social media to be part of a group led by Elkius Kobak in the Yahukimo region, though the connection between the two groups is still being investigated. Shortly after the incident, M. Mbalingga issued a statement claiming responsibility, followed by a similar claim from Elkius Kobak. Investigators also obtained photographic evidence showing the perpetrator standing on the burned aircraft, who was positively identified as M. Mbalingga. The group is considered new, and its weaponry is still being identified by the Cartenz Peace Task Force team. Regarding the motive, investigators noted the group had previously threatened flights entering areas they claim as their operational zone, but the exact motive remains under investigation.