TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) on Friday, July 3, handed over the body of American pilot Nicholas F. Goseli, who was killed in an attack on a PT AMA Air aircraft in Yahukimo, Highland Papua, to his family and the airline.
The handover took place after TNI personnel successfully evacuated Goseli's body from the site of the attack in Balinggama Village, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency.
"Thank God, the body was successfully evacuated by TNI troops under the command of the Joint Regional Defense Command (Kogabwilhan) III at 08:00 AM Eastern Indonesia Time on Friday, July 3, 2026.
"The body is currently being prepared at the Indonesian Army Hospital in Timika before being handed over to the family and AMA," Commander of Kogabwilhan III Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto said in a statement received by Antara on Friday.
TNI Pursues Attackers
Lucky said the military is continuing its pursuit of the separatist group responsible for the attack that killed Goseli.
He said security forces have been gathering evidence at the scene and identifying those involved in the attack.
The West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) is an armed separatist group that has waged an insurgency against the Indonesian government in Papua for decades.
Earlier, TPNPB-OPM spokesperson Sebby Sambom claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was carried out by fighters led by Elkius Kobak.
"The incident was carried out by a group led by Elkius Kobak, and its responsibility was openly acknowledged by TPNPB-OPM spokesperson Sebby Sambom. This is a stark reflection of the challenges facing development and society in Indonesia's easternmost region," Lucky said.
He added that the military would make every effort to apprehend those responsible in order to maintain security in Papua.
"In accordance with prevailing laws and regulations, we can take firm action under the Rules of Engagement (ROE). We will ensure that any measures taken are proportionate and continue to uphold the law and human rights," he said.
Attack on PT AMA Air Flight
The attack occurred at around 06:50 AM local time on Thursday, July 2.
According to the military, the PT AMA Air aircraft had departed from Wamena Airport and landed at Ipdeheik Airstrip in Balinggama Village, Sobaham District, at about 6:46 a.m. Shortly after landing, the aircraft came under attack by members of the Free Papua Movement (OPM).
The aircraft caught fire during the attack, and Goseli died after being shot. Seven passengers survived the incident.
Read: Why Did the Papua Liberation Army Kill an American Pilot?
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