Indonesian forces evacuate US pilot's body after Papua attack

Indonesian forces have successfully evacuated the body of an American pilot who was fatally shot by the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Organization (TPNPB-OPM) in Papua Pegunungan. The operation, conducted by the Koops TNI Habema command, took place in the Ipdeheik Airport area of Yahukimo Regency on Friday, July 3, 2026.

The evacuation mission was carried out by 10 personnel from Koops TNI Habema, supported by two Caracal helicopters. The operation navigated challenging mountainous terrain, prioritizing security and precision. The body of pilot Nicholas F. Goselin, who flew a Pilatus PK-RCY aircraft belonging to PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) Air, was transported to Timika for further processing.

Letnan Kolonel Infanteri M. Wirya Arthadiguna, head of information for Koops TNI Habema, stated that the command would continue to collaborate with relevant parties to ensure the safety of the community and the continuity of pioneer aviation services in Papua. He confirmed that the attack on the pilot and the subsequent burning of the PT AMA Air plane were carried out by the OPM XVI/Yahukimo group, led by Elkius Kobak.

In response, Koops TNI Habema teams launched patrols to pursue the perpetrators, aiming to maintain security and support law enforcement. Wirya added that security forces were also securing the incident site to ensure a conducive environment for the ongoing investigation. The TPNPB-OPM, through its spokesperson Sebby Sambom, claimed responsibility for the shooting and burning, declaring it an ultimatum to prevent any further flights by Indonesian airlines in Papua. The group stated that 36 TPNPB regional commands had issued flight bans to all airlines operating in Papua.