TNI to boost security deployment in vulnerable Papua areas

Jayapura (ANTARA) - Commander of the Joint Regional Defense Command (Kogabwilhan) III, Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto, said the Indonesian Military (TNI) will deploy additional security personnel to several vulnerable locations in Papua following the fatal shooting of AMA Airways pilot Nicholas F. Goselin in Balinggama, Sobaham Sub-district, Yahukimo District, Papua Pegunungan Province.

There was no security post at the location when the shooting occurred on Thursday (July 2), Lucky told ANTARA in Jayapura on Saturday.

According to him, the nearest security post is located about 40 kilometers from the scene across mountainous terrain.

Lucky said a similar situation occurred during the attack on a Smart Air aircraft at Korowai Airstrip in Boven Digoel District, South Papua Province, on February 12, 2026, in which two crew members were killed.

The TNI will therefore evaluate security arrangements in areas without security posts, particularly those served by pioneer aviation routes.

"We have conveyed this to Jayapura Bishop Yanuarius You. We hope to collaborate in identifying areas that require additional security personnel and reinforced security measures," Lucky said.

The collaboration is expected to strengthen protection for local communities while ensuring the continuity of essential services in remote areas.

"The deployment of security personnel at these locations is expected to provide a greater sense of security so that communities can continue to receive essential services," he said.

Earlier, on Friday (July 3, 2026), personnel from the Habema Joint Operations Command (Koops Habema) evacuated the body of AMA Airways pilot Nicholas F. Goselin, who was shot dead by an armed criminal group (KKB) shortly after landing a Pilatus Porter aircraft at Balinggama Airstrip in Sobaham Sub-district, Papua Pegunungan Province.

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Translator: Bayu Prasetyo

Editor: Primayanti

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