Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Strongly Condemns Aircraft Arson and Pilot Murder by Papua Armed Criminal Group

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, General (Ret.) Djamari Chaniago, has strongly condemned the arson of an aircraft and the heinous act against the pilot of an AMA plane, which is strongly suspected to have been carried out by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Papua. Since receiving initial information about the incident, Djamari stressed that the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs has been continuously monitoring and paying close attention, as well as implementing coordinative measures with TNI, Polri units, and relevant ministries, agencies, and institutions in handling the arson incident involving the AMA aircraft PK-RCY, serial number 923, at Ipdeheik Pioneer Airport, Balinggama Village, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan. The Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs expressed its appreciation to the TNI, Polri, and all elements involved for their swiftness in evacuating the body of the late Nicholas F. Goselin, the AMA pilot, on Friday, 3 July, at around 09.00 WIT. The body is currently at Timika Hospital before the TNI Habema Operations Command hands it over to PT AMA for transportation to Jakarta. The government will not tolerate any form of violence and heinous acts against citizens or air transportation facilities, which serve as a vital service artery for the people of Papua. The Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs will continue to encourage the investigation process and firm law enforcement measures by the TNI-Polri against the perpetrators, as well as push for the security of pioneer flights to ensure public safety and the continuity of public services.