TNI's Habema Command Pursues Separatist Group That Shot US Pilot

The TNI’s Habema Command is currently pursuing the separatist group that killed an American pilot, Nicholas F. Goselin, in Kampung Balinggama, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan, on Thursday (2/7). The pursuit operation was launched after Habema Command successfully evacuated the body from the shooting site.

Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya Arthadiguna, stated that the evacuation operation involved 10 personnel from Koops TNI Habema supported by two Caracal helicopters. The entire process prioritised security and precision given the highly challenging mountainous terrain. After evacuation, the body will be taken to Timika, Central Papua, to be handed over to the authorities in accordance with applicable procedures.

Regarding the pursuit, Wirya confirmed that the killing of the pilot and the burning of the PT AMA Air aircraft were carried out by the OPM XVI/Yahukimo group led by Elkius Kobak. TNI forces are currently gathering various clues to locate the separatist group. Simultaneously, Habema personnel have been deployed to tighten surveillance at the shooting site to prevent any follow-up attacks that could threaten the safety of local residents.

Patrols and the pursuit of the perpetrators are ongoing. Wirya emphasised that they will continue to synergise with all relevant elements to ensure public security and maintain pioneer flight services in Papua. The incident occurred on Thursday (2/7) at 06:50 WIT, when the aircraft, which had taken off from Wamena Airport, landed at Ipdeheik Airport in Balinggama Village at 06:46 WIT. The plane was attacked and set on fire, and the pilot was declared dead from gunshot wounds at the scene.