Cartenz Peace Task Force Speaks Out on PT AMA, Affirms Solely Humanitarian Mission
The Head of Public Relations for the 2026 Damai Cartenz Operation, Senior Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, has addressed negative narratives regarding PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) being involved in activities beyond humanitarian missions, following the death of US pilot Captain Nicholas F. Goselin. Recent discussions have alleged that AMA aircraft were involved in military activities.
The Head of Public Relations stated that his office has communicated directly with the management of PT AMA and the Bishop of Jayapura, who leads the mission. “Based on the information we have obtained, PT AMA has served humanitarian missions and religious services in Papua for 67 years. This is the first time they have experienced such a tragic event,” the Head of Public Relations stated in an official release on Saturday, 4 July 2026.
He emphasised that PT AMA purely provides services for churches and communities in the remote areas of Papua.
Meanwhile, the Head of Law Enforcement for the Damai Cartenz Operation, Senior Commissioner I. G. G. Era Adinata, added that since the shooting occurred, his team has conducted a series of investigations, including witness examinations, interviews, information gathering, and social media monitoring.
“Based on preliminary investigation results, we have concluded that the action was carried out by the Bakusip Armed Criminal Group (KKB). This is a new group led by M. Mbalingga. In several social media posts, the individual claimed to be part of the group led by Elkius Kobak in the Yahukimo region,” explained the Head of Law Enforcement.
However, the Head of Law Enforcement noted that the relationship between the Bakusip group and the Elkius Kobak group is still being investigated by detectives.
“Shortly after the incident, M. Mbalingga released a statement claiming responsibility for the attack. Shortly thereafter, Elkius Kobak released a similar statement. Furthermore, we obtained documentation in the form of photos showing the perpetrator standing on top of the burnt PT AMA aircraft. Based on identification, the perpetrator has been confirmed as M. Mbalingga,” the Head of Law Enforcement elaborated.
According to their profile, this is considered a new group, and their weaponry is still being identified by the 2026 Damai Cartenz Operation team.
Regarding the motive for the attack, investigators noted that the group had previously issued threats against flight activities entering areas they claim as their operational zone. Nevertheless, authorities emphasised that the exact motive for the attack is still being investigated through the ongoing inquiry process.