KKB Ambush Kills Two Pilots at Papua Airstrip

RRI.CO.ID, Jayapura - A deadly ambush at a remote Papuan airstrip has claimed the lives of two aviators, marking a grim escalation of violence in the region. Brig. Gen. Faizal Rahmadani, Head of the Damai Cartenz Task Force, confirmed that both the pilot and co-pilot of a Smart Air flight were fatally shot by an Armed Criminal Group (KKB) shortly after their aircraft touched down at Karowai Airfield.

The aircraft, a PK-SNR flight originating from Tanah Merah in Boven Digoel, South Papua, was carrying 13 passengers during its journey. It became the target of a sudden barrage of gunfire upon arrival at the airfield at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time on Wednesday, February 13, 2026.

Speaking from Jayapura on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Brig. Gen. Rahmadani identified the deceased crew members as Pilot Enggo and Co-pilot Baskoro.

"Based on the reports received, Pilot Enggo and Co-pilot Baskoro were killed in the incident, while the condition of the 13 passengers has yet to be confirmed," remarked Rahmadani, as quoted by Antara.

Uncertainty remains regarding the status and identity of those on board the ill-fated flight. "Regarding the 13 passengers, it cannot yet be determined whether they are local residents of Korowai or not, as we have only received the preliminary report," added Rahmadani.

The passenger manifest has been identified as Yance Bemonop, Limu Gurik, Yanduk Kogoya, Turis Magai, Emira Wonda, Kiris (an infant), Dua Lima Kogoya, Inantinus Kahipka, Irfan Kahipka, Samuel Jitmau, Pania Mialim, Topius Kogoya, and Tialongga Kogoya.

Security forces are currently working to identify the perpetrators behind the assault, though no specific faction has been officially blamed.

"We cannot yet confirm which group is responsible as the investigation is still ongoing," noted the Task Force Commander.

To address the situation on the ground, the Damai Cartenz Task Force is scheduled to deploy to the site on Friday, February 13, 2026, to conduct a field assessment and evacuate the remains of the two crew members. ***