Indonesian forces evacuate pilot's body from attacked Papua airstrip

Indonesian forces have successfully evacuated the body of Nicholas F. Goselin, an American pilot for PT AMA Air, who was killed during an attack on an airstrip in Yahukimo, Papua. The incident occurred Friday when suspected Organisasi Papua Merdeka (OPM) militants allegedly attacked and burned the PK-RCY aircraft at the Ipdeheik Airport.

Koops TNI Habema, the joint Indonesian military command in Papua, conducted a swift and precise operation to secure the airstrip and conduct tactical search and rescue. The operation utilized two Caracal helicopters and involved 10 personnel navigating the challenging mountainous terrain. The airport is situated at a difficult-to-access altitude of 2,292 meters above sea level, with no ground access, making aerial operations essential.

Brig. Gen. Riyanto, Deputy Commander of Koops TNI Habema, expressed deep condolences to Goselin's family. He affirmed the command's commitment to maintaining regional security, rescuing victims, securing the location, protecting the public, and supporting law enforcement efforts against the perpetrators. The evacuation and investigation were reportedly hampered by the difficult geography and weather conditions.

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We express our deepest condolences to the deceased's family. Our priority is to rescue victims, secure the location, protect the public, and support law enforcement processes against the perpetrators.