Inp.polri.go.id - Yahukimo. The Damai Cartenz Task Force launched an investigation on Thursday (2/7/2026) following reports of an Associated Mission Aviation (AMA) aircraft catching fire at Balingga Airport in Yahukimo Regency, Papua Mountains.

The Pilatus aircraft, bearing registration PK-RCY, was operating a Wamena–Balingga–Wamena route carrying US pilot Nicholas F. Goselin and seven passengers. Authorities discovered the burning aircraft at the end of the runway through aerial footage captured by a passing pilot. Operational teams are navigating difficult terrain and high-altitude weather conditions to reach the site.

In Jayapura, Damai Cartenz Task Force Head of Public Relations Senior Superintendent Yusuf Sutejo confirmed that while early suspicions lean toward armed criminal group (KKB) involvement, verification requires an on-site forensics analysis.

"We cannot yet confirm casualty information as our teams are awaiting direct verification at the scene," he said. "Tomorrow, a team will be dispatched to the site."

(mg/ta/pr/rs)