Indonesia is actively working with the United States to return the body of American pilot Nicholas F. Goselin, who tragically lost his life in a violent attack by Papua separatists in the Yahukimo region. The Free Papua Movement’s armed faction has claimed responsibility for this assault, asserting that their actions targeted the aircraft due to its alleged breach of a flight ban over territories they control. The separatists further accused civilian aircraft of supporting Indonesian military activities by ferrying troops and supplies into these areas.
The aircraft, which was operated by PT AMA, was subsequently set ablaze following the assault. Remarkably, the seven Indonesian passengers aboard survived the ordeal unharmed. Authorities have since managed to recover and evacuate the body of the deceased pilot.
In response to this incident, Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed its collaboration with the US Embassy in Jakarta and other pertinent agencies to ensure consular access and facilitate the pilot’s repatriation process. The Indonesian government has expressed its strong condemnation of all acts of violence targeting civilians, public service infrastructure, and aircraft serving isolated communities. Additionally, it has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding foreign nationals present in the country.
The United States, while closely monitoring the ongoing investigation into the incident, has chosen to withhold further comments in deference to the pilot’s grieving family. Meanwhile, Indonesian authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation to uncover the details surrounding the attack.