"We are working to ensure the safety and security of civil aviation at pioneer airports in Papua. So far, especially in Korowai, security has been adequately reinforced," the Head of the National Police Public Relations Division, Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir said on Friday.
According to him, the enhanced security reflects the TNI-Polri's commitment to ensuring safety, as air transportation is vital to the lives of local residents.
"Due to the geographical conditions and characteristics of Papua, where air transportation is the lifeblood of connectivity, this is crucial," he emphasized.
He then mentioned that the Korowai region is not included in the Carstensz Peace Operation area because the area is relatively safe and under control.
However, following this shooting, personnel from the Cartenz Peace Operation and the Papua Regional Police have been deployed to the area.
Isir then assured residents they could resume their daily routines, stressing that the police will continue tracking down the perpetrators.
"Please return to your normal activities, we are currently investigating to determine who is part of this group from Yahukimo," he said.
Previously, the Head of Operations for the Cartenz Peace Task Force, Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, stated that the groups responsible for the shooting of the Smart Air plane in Korowai were the Cannibal Battalion and the Semut Merah Battalion, led by Elkius Kobak from Yahukimo.
He ensured that law enforcement is currently underway, with teams deployed to apprehend the perpetrators.
Investigation and law enforcement would be carried out in a measured and professional manner to protect, restore, and provide a sense of security to the public, he added.
The shooting incident targeting the Smart Air plane and crew occurred on Wednesday (February 11) as the plane, carrying 13 passengers from Tanah Merah, Boven Digoel District, arrived at the airport in Korowai.
The incident killed the pilot, Captain Enggon Erawan, and co-pilot Captain Baskoro Adi Anggoro.
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Translator: Nadia Putri R, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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