Government Vows Zero Tolerance for Pilot Shooting in Papua
The Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, Djamari Chaniago, has expressed strong condemnation regarding the shooting of a pilot and the burning of an AMA aircraft, allegedly carried out by the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) militia. The incident, which occurred in Yahukimo on Thursday, 2 July 2026, resulted in the death of American pilot Nicholas F. Goselin.
“The government will not tolerate any form of violence and heinous acts,” he stated in a written statement, quoted on Saturday, 4 July 2026.
He noted that the shooting by the separatist group also impacts community activities, as air transport serves as a vital lifeline for services in Papua. Djamari stated that the ministry will push for an investigation and law enforcement measures against the perpetrators, while also promoting security measures for pioneer flights to guarantee public safety and the continuity of public services, according to the retired general.
Currently, he said, the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs is monitoring and coordinating with the TNI-Polri (Indonesian National Armed Forces and National Police) and other agencies regarding the handling of the incident involving the American pilot. He expressed appreciation for the authorities’ response in evacuating the deceased.
“The body is currently at RST Timika, after which the TNI Habema Regional Command will hand it over to PT AMA to be flown to Jakarta,” Djamari said.
According to the chronology provided by the TNI, the shooting of the pilot and the burning of the AMA aircraft (registration PK-RCY, Serial Number 923) is strongly suspected to have been carried out by the OPM group led by Elkius Kobak. Commander of Kogabwilhan III, Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto, stated that the Pilatus Porter aircraft departed from Wamena Airport at 06:30 WIT and landed at Ipdeheik Airport in Balinggama Village, Yahukimo, approximately 16 minutes later.
According to Lucky, the TPNPB militia launched an indiscriminate attack as the aircraft was preparing to land. The American pilot, Nicholas F. Goslim, was killed in the incident. “The seven passengers are reported to be safe,” he added.
The TPNPB-OPM has claimed responsibility for the shooting of the pilot and the burning of the aircraft in the Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua, on Thursday, 2 July.
TPNPB central headquarters spokesperson Sebby Sambom stated that the shooting of the American passport holder and the burning of the aircraft were carried out directly by the TPNPB Kodap XVI Yahukimo militia, led by Elkius Kobak.
“We shot as an ultimatum so that no more Indonesian airlines will fly in Papua,” Sambom said in a written statement on Friday, 3 July 2026.