Indonesian Military Hands Over Body of American Pilot Killed in Papua

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Military (TNI) have officially handed over the body of Nicholas F. Goseli, an American pilot for PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) Air PK-RCY, to his family and airline representatives. The transfer took place on Friday, July 3, 2026, following a successful evacuation from the site of the attack in Balinggama Village, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua.

Commander of Joint Regional Defense Command III, Lt. Gen. Lucky Avianto, confirmed that Goseli's remains were evacuated at 8 a.m. local time and taken to the TNI Army Hospital in Timika for proper handling. “The body has been evacuated and is now being prepared before being handed over to the family and AMA,” Lucky said, as quoted by Antara.

At the same time, TNI forces are pursuing the separatist group responsible for the attack. Lucky said that the perpetrators were linked to Elkius Kobak’s faction, with the West Papua National Liberation Army - Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) spokesperson Sebby Sambom openly claiming responsibility. He stressed that the military would take firm but measured action under Rules of Engagement (ROE) to uphold law and human rights.

The incident occurred on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 06:50, local time, when Goseli's aircraft, departing from Wamena Airport in Jayawijaya Regency, Highland Papua, landed at Ipdeheik Airstrip in Balinggama. The plane was attacked by members of the OPM, set ablaze, and Goseli's was fatally shot at the scene.

This tragedy underscores ongoing security challenges in Papua. TNI has vowed to intensify operations to restore stability and ensure accountability for the attack. ***