Indonesian Police Identify Group Behind American Pilot's Killing

Indonesian police have identified the armed criminal group responsible for the fatal shooting of American pilot Nicholas F. Goselin as the Bakusip group, led by M. Mbalingga. The group, considered new, has claimed affiliation with another group led by Elkius Kobak in the Yahukimo region, according to police.

Satgas Gakkum Operasi Damai Cartenz is investigating the connection between the Bakusip and Elkius Kobak groups. Following the shooting on Thursday, July 2, 2026, investigators examined witnesses, gathered information, and monitored social media. M. Mbalingga initially claimed responsibility for the attack, with Elkius Kobak later issuing a similar statement. A photo showing someone standing on a burned PT AMA aircraft, identified as M. Mbalingga, was also shared.

Authorities are still working to determine the motive for the attack. However, police noted that the KKB had previously issued threats via social media recordings against aviation activities entering areas they claim as their operational zones. The investigation aims to uncover the full motive behind the killing of pilot Nicholas Goselin, who was flying a Pilatus aircraft for AMA.