Police Investigate The Scene Of The Burning Of Susi Air Plane In Paro Nduga

The Cartenz Peaceful Law Enforcement Task Force conducts crime scene analysis at the burning site of the Susi Air plane in Paro, Nduga Regency. (ANTARA/HO-Public Relations of the Cartenz Peace Task Force)

JAYAPURA - Investigators from the General Criminal Investigation Unit of the Papua Regional Police and the Cartenz Peace Law Enforcement Task Force conducted a review of the scene of the burning of the Susi Air plane at Paro Airport, Nduga Regency, Papua Mountains Province.

The Commander of the Cartenz Peace Task Force Kombes Faizal Rahmadani said that the crime scene (TKP) investigation was carried out on Wednesday (15/2).

"Apart from conducting TKP investigations, members also carried out cleaning at the airfield from the wreckage of the Susi Air plane so that now it can be landed," said Faizal, reported by ANTARA, Thursday, February 16.

When conducting TKP investigations, investigators did not receive any interference, including from the armed criminal group (KKB).

Currently, continued Faizal, there are no residents living in Paro because they have fled to Kenyam some time ago.

"There are no more residents living in Paro," explained Faizal while adding that security at the Paro Airfield is currently being carried out by personnel from the Indonesian Air Force Kopasgat.

Regarding the condition of the plane belonging to Susi Air that was burnt by KKB, Faizal explained that around 80 percent of the fuselage was damaged and was reduced to rubble, except for the wings, propellers, and tail.

"The debris from the Susi Air Pilatus Porter type aircraft has been cleared from the end of the Paro Airfield so that now it can land again," Faizal added.

The Susi Air plane with flight number PK-BVY piloted by Philip Mark Merthens was burned by KKB shortly after landing with five passengers on board.

Currently, pilot Susi Air, a New Zealand national, is being held hostage by KKB led by Egianus Kogoya.