AMA Aircraft, Serving Papua for 67 Years, Burned by KKB; Pilot Dies

An Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) Pilatus aircraft, registration PK-RCY, which had been serving flights for humanitarian and religious missions in Papua for 67 years, was burned and its pilot, Captain Nicholas F. Goselin (29), was shot and killed by an armed criminal group (KKB) in Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan. This was confirmed by Kombes Yusuf Sutejo, Head of Public Relations for the Damai Cartenz-2026 Operation Task Force. Sutejo emphasized that PT AMA has been serving humanitarian and religious missions in Papua for 67 years and this is the first time they have experienced such a tragic event. He denied any narrative suggesting PT AMA's involvement in the incident, stating that the aircraft was purely serving churches and communities in remote areas of Papua. He added that the task force has communicated with PT AMA management and the Bishop of Jayapura, confirming that the aircraft was operating for civilian purposes. The attack occurred on July 2 at Balinggama Airfield in Yahukimo. While the pilot was killed, seven passengers were reported safe. Preliminary investigations by the Damai Cartenz Operation Task Force indicate that the incident was orchestrated by a new KKB group led by M. Mbalingga, identified as the "Bakusip" group. Evidence, including a photograph of the perpetrator standing on the burned aircraft, has been collected. The task force is continuing its professional investigation to uncover all perpetrators and their motives. The pilot's body was handed over to PT AMA representatives after an autopsy. The task force extended its deepest condolences to the victim's family, PT AMA, and all affected parties.