Task force confirms Bakusip group behind killing of US pilot in Papua

Jayapura, Papua (ANTARA) - The Law Enforcement Task Force of Cartenz Peace Operation has confirmed that the armed criminal group (KKB) responsible for the fatal shooting of American pilot Nicholas F. Goselin is the "Bakusip group”.

The group is a newly emerged faction led by an individual identified as M. Mbalingga.

“Based on several social media posts, the Bakusip group claims to be a part of the network led by Elkius Kobak in the Yahukimo region," Head of the task force Police Chief Commissioner IGG Era Adhinata stated here on Saturday.

He explained that following the fatal attack on Thursday (July 2), the task force immediately launched a comprehensive investigation, including questioning witnesses, conducting interviews, gathering intelligence, and actively monitoring social media channels.

Authorities are still examining the exact relationship between the Bakusip group and Elkius Kobak's established faction.

According to Adhinata, M. Mbalingga claimed responsibility for the attack shortly after the incident. Elkius Kobak later released a similar statement, accompanied by a photograph showing the alleged perpetrator standing atop the burned PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) aircraft.

"Based on our identification process, the perpetrator has been confirmed as M. Mbalingga," he said.

Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the attack. However, a recording circulated on social media shows the armed group threatening any aircraft operating in the area, which it declared as its operational zone.

"Investigators are continuing to determine the exact motive behind the attack that killed pilot Nicholas Goselin, who was flying an AMA-owned Pilatus aircraft," Adhinata added.

The attack occurred in Balinggama Village, Yahukimo District, Highland Papua Province, an area accessible only by air and located about a 30-minute flight from Dekai, the district capital.

The aircraft was en route from Wamena to Balinggama carrying seven passengers: Eston Sobolim, Kluenang Sobolim, Toni Balingga, Elina Sobolim, Ona Sobolim, Lisenia Balingga, and Vaince Amo Hoso.

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Translator: Evarukdijati, Uyu Liman

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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