YAHUKIMO, OLEMAH.COM – An aircraft belonging to AMA Aviation with registration PK-RCY was reported burned at Ipdeheik Airstrip, Balinggama Village, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Highlands, on Thursday (July 2, 2026) at approximately 9:15 a.m. WIT. Indonesian security authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident, identify possible victims, and establish responsibility.
According to preliminary reports, the aircraft was operating a routine flight on the Wamena–Balinggama–Wamena route. It was piloted by Captain Nicholas F. Goselin, a United States citizen. Shortly after landing at Ipdeheik Airstrip, the aircraft was reportedly set on fire.
Local residents also circulated information alleging that Captain Goselin may have become a victim during the incident. However, as of the publication of this report, neither Indonesian security authorities nor the airline have officially confirmed the pilot's condition or the exact sequence of events.
Authorities Confirm Investigation
Head of Public Relations for Operation Damai Cartenz, Senior Commissioner Yusuf Sutejo, confirmed that authorities had received reports regarding the incident and were coordinating efforts to verify information from the remote location.
According to him, the first indication of the incident came from video footage recorded by another pilot flying over the area.
"We received the initial information through a video recorded by another pilot who happened to fly over the location. At this stage, we are still verifying all available information," Yusuf Sutejo said.
He explained that the aircraft had departed from Wamena for Balinggama before it was later found burned at the end of the airstrip.
Difficult Terrain Delays Response
Authorities said reaching the crash site has been extremely challenging due to the rugged geography and severe weather conditions.
Ipdeheik Airstrip is located at an altitude of approximately 2,292 meters above sea level in a mountainous region where thick fog often covers the area after early morning hours. The airstrip also lacks navigation systems, electricity, and reliable communication infrastructure.
Because of these conditions, security personnel were unable to conduct an immediate crime scene investigation.
Operation Damai Cartenz plans to deploy approximately three teams by air as soon as weather conditions permit in order to secure the site and carry out a full investigation.
Victims Yet to Be Confirmed
Authorities emphasized that they have not yet confirmed the number of victims because investigators have not reached the location.
Based on preliminary coordination with the airline, the aircraft was flown by Captain Nicholas F. Goselin, an American pilot.
Information regarding additional passengers or casualties remains under verification pending direct examination at the scene.
"We cannot yet confirm the condition of the victims because our personnel have not been able to access the location. Every report circulating at this point must be verified first," Yusuf Sutejo stated.
TPNPB Claims Responsibility
Meanwhile, the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) Kodap XVI Yahukimo has claimed responsibility for the incident.
The claim was made in a press release issued by the Central Headquarters Management of TPNPB, signed by spokesperson Sebby Sambom on July 2, 2026, and later published by Media Papua Pikiran Rakyat.
In the statement, TPNPB claimed responsibility for the shooting of American pilot Nicholas F. Goselin and the burning of the PT AMA aircraft in Balinggama Village, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency.
However, these claims remain unilateral and have not been independently verified. Indonesian authorities have not officially confirmed the group's statement or identified the perpetrators.
Vital Air Link for Remote Communities
The incident has raised serious concern because pioneer aviation services are the primary means of transportation connecting remote mountain districts in Yahukimo with Wamena and other regions.
These flights are essential for delivering food supplies, medical services, education, government logistics, and other critical services to isolated communities.
Any disruption to these air services could significantly affect public services and the movement of goods and people across the region.
As of Thursday evening, security forces were waiting for favorable weather conditions before deploying personnel to the scene. Investigators are expected to conduct a full forensic examination, identify any victims, and determine the cause of the incident once access becomes possible.
Olemah.com will continue to monitor developments and provide updates based on official statements from Indonesian authorities, aviation officials, the airline, and other verified sources.
Source : Kompas TV
Edited by : Olemah Editorial Team
Website : www.olemah.com
Publication Date : July 2, 2026
0 Komentar