US Pilot Killed by OPM in Papua, Group Issues Warning to UN

A U.S. pilot, Nicholas F. Goselin, was shot and killed by the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) in the Yahukimo Regency of Papua Pegunungan on July 2, 2026. The pilot was flying a plane belonging to PT AMA when the incident occurred.

Sebby Sambom, spokesperson for the TPNPB-OPM central command, stated that the shooting and burning of the aircraft were carried out by TPNPB militia under the command of Elkius Kobak. The group claimed the plane was targeted because it was allegedly transporting supplies for Indonesian military troops in Papua. This was confirmed by Panglima Kogabwilhan III, Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto.

The body of the pilot was evacuated on July 3, 2026. An examination revealed multiple wounds, including a bullet entry point on the left cheek and an exit near the right ear, causing fractures to the right cheekbone. The TPNPB-OPM stated the shooting was a warning to the United Nations, the United States, and the Netherlands, accusing them of violating international law by not involving Papuans in negotiations to resolve the political issues in the region. Sambom warned that the shootings would continue if the UN did not address the root political problems.

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Political, Security, and Legal Affairs, Djamari Chaniago, condemned the violence, noting its disruption to air transport, which is vital for communities in Papua. He pledged that the government would investigate the incident and pursue legal action against those responsible, while also enhancing security for air services to ensure public safety and continuity of services.