TNI Deploys Three Fleets to Evacuate Body of US Pilot Killed by Armed Criminal Group

The TNI’s Habema Operations Command evacuated the body of United States citizen Nicholas F. Goselin, a pilot for PT AMA Air, who was a victim of an attack and aircraft arson at Ipdeheik airstrip in Balinggama village, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan, on Friday (3/7). Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya Artadiguna, stated that three security unit fleets were deployed to evacuate the body of the pilot, who is believed to have been killed by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Balinggama. Three helicopters were dispatched to evacuate the body of the 29-year-old victim, a pilot for PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA). “The team departed from Timika at 06:45 WIT and hopes the evacuation process proceeds safely and smoothly,” said Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya on Friday morning. Wirya stated the American pilot died from suspected gunshot wounds inflicted by KKB members, though confirmation is still pending from the field team. “The plan is for the body to be flown directly to Jayapura,” he added. In addition to shooting pilot Nicholas F. Goselin, the KKB also set fire to the Pilatus aircraft with flight number PK-RCY upon its arrival at the Balinggama airstrip, which was carrying seven passengers from Wamena. The seven passengers on the AMA flight bound for Balinggama were Eston Sobolim, Kluenang Sobolim, Toni Balingga, Elina Sobolim, Ona Sobolim, Lisenia Balingga, and Vaince Amo Hoso. Kodam XVII/Cenderawasih reported that the seven passengers of PT AMA Air PK-RCY are now safe and unharmed. “The seven passengers, all of whom are Indigenous Papuans (OAP), are reported safe and in good condition,” said Kapendam XVII/Cenderawasih, Colonel Inf Tri Purwanto, in a written statement on Friday (3/7). Previously, Koops TNI Habema launched a Quick Seizure Special Operation to control and secure the airstrip as an entry point for assistance, while simultaneously conducting a Tactical Search and Rescue (SAR) mission to evacuate the victim. The operation involved 10 personnel from Koops TNI Habema supported by two Caracal helicopters. The operation was carried out swiftly, measurably, and in a coordinated manner due to the highly challenging mountainous terrain. Deputy Commander of Koops TNI Habema, Brigadier General Riyanto, expressed condolences over the death of the PT AMA Air pilot and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining security in the region. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our priority is to rescue victims, secure the location, protect the community, and support the law enforcement process against the perpetrators,” Riyanto said in a written statement on Friday. The AMA aircraft with flight number PK-RCY was allegedly set on fire by the KKB at Ipdeheik airstrip on Thursday (2/7). KKB is the term used by authorities for the Free Papua Organisation (OPM) militia.