Kaops Says Attack on Smart Air Plane Was Carried Out by 20 KKB People

JAYAPURA - The Head of Operations (Kaops) of the Cartenz Peace Task Force, Brigadier General Pol Faizal Rahmadani, revealed the results of the investigation of the scene of the incident (TKP) related to the Smart Air plane attack at Karowai Airport. Based on the findings on the ground, the attack, accompanied by brutal shootings, was carried out by around 20 members of the Armed Criminal Group (KKB).

The tragic incident involving the Smart Air plane with flight number PK-SNR occurred on Wednesday, February 11. At that time, the plane had just landed at around 10.30 WIT at Koroway Batu Airport and was preparing to continue the flight to Dekai, Yahukimo Regency.

Brigadier General Pol Faizal explained that dozens of KKB members suddenly came out of a lodging located on the edge of the airport. They immediately fired at the plane when the pilot was starting the engine.

"KKB suddenly appeared and opened fire while the pilot of the Smart Air plane was starting the engine so that passengers and crew got off the plane to save themselves," said Brigadier General Pol Faizal, Saturday, February 14.

The situation became more gripping when the plane crew tried to save themselves. KKB reportedly chased and shot two plane crew members to death at the scene. Currently, the bodies of the two crew members have been evacuated and buried in their respective hometowns.

Based on the testimony of witnesses, the perpetrators are suspected of not being native residents of Korowai because their faces are not recognized by local residents.

The Cartenz Peace Task Force has identified the group responsible for this attack. The perpetrators are a combination of the Kanibal and Red Ant KKB groups led by Elkius Kobak from the Yahukimo region.

In the process of processing the crime scene, the team found very clear evidence of violence on the plane's physical condition. There were at least 13 bullet marks on the fuselage, and the investigators noted that there were 23 points of evidence numbering around the location.

Currently, security personnel are still on standby and taking steps to pursue. Brigadier General Pol Faizal emphasized that his party would not remain silent over this heinous act.

"The Cartenz Peace Task Force is currently enforcing the law against the perpetrators," he said.