American Pilot Killed After Landing in Indonesia’s Papua

Indonesian security forces recovered the body of an American pilot Friday after he was killed following a landing in Papua Highlands, the Associated Press reported, citing a military commander.

The pilot was identified by AP and Indonesia’s Antara news agency as Nicholas F. Goselin, a pilot for PT AMA, also known as Associated Mission Aviation.

Goselin was shot dead Thursday shortly after landing at the Ipdeheik airstrip in Balinggama village, Yahukimo regency, AP reported. AP said armed separatists attacked and burned the small aircraft.

One pilot and seven passengers were on the flight. They were described in reports as local or Indigenous Papuan civilians, and all survived unharmed, according to AP, Reuters and ABC Australia.

Antara said PT AMA President Director Bob Kayadu reported that the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta would assist with arrangements after Goselin’s body was flown to Jakarta.

AP and Reuters reported that the West Papua National Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack. Reuters said spokesperson Sebby Sambom alleged the aircraft was supporting Indonesian military operations, while AP reported that Indonesia’s military denied troops were on board.