PapuaAround.com – On Monday (July 8, 2024) at around 11:40 AM WIT, a shocking incident occurred at Sinak Airport, Sinak District, Puncak Regency, Central Papua. An armed criminal group (KKB) opened fire on Smart Air flight PK-SNH, which was carrying five passengers. The plane, which had just flown from Nabire Regency, was in the process of landing at Sinak Airport when the shooting happened.
“The shooting occurred around 11:40 AM WIT, hitting the plane’s propeller blades. Fortunately, there were no casualties. The pilot quickly decided to land the plane at Sinak Airport and waited for the situation to be safe before returning to Nabire,” said Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, Head of Operation Peace Cartenz, in a written statement on Monday (July 8, 2024).
Despite the panic caused by the attack, the pilot successfully landed the plane safely. At 11:55 AM WIT, a second plane from NGA Airlines, which had taken off from Timika, managed to land safely in Sinak. “Once the situation was safe, the Smart Air and NGA planes, whose departures had been delayed, were able to return to their original destinations, Nabire and Mimika,” Faizal added.
Following the shooting at the plane, the KKB did not stop there. They launched another attack towards the logistics warehouse post of Yonif 751. This action was met with return fire from the troops, leading to a shootout at the location. “After the shooting, joint forces immediately responded by pursuing the group,” he added.
This incident adds to the long list of violent acts committed by the KKB in the Papua region. Firing at a commercial plane is an extremely dangerous act and indicates an escalation of violence by the KKB. The security situation in the area is a serious concern, especially for aviation and logistics activities which are vital for the local community.
Meanwhile, security forces continue to work to apprehend and control KKB activities. On the same day, one KKB member was arrested in Nabire. “This arrest is part of our efforts to curb criminal activities in Central Papua,” Faizal said.
In tackling the KKB threat, the government continues to enhance security in vulnerable areas. These measures include increasing patrols, adding security personnel, and coordinating with local governments and communities. “We will not back down in facing the KKB. The safety of the community and the region is our top priority,” Faizal stressed.
The shooting incident has garnered widespread attention from various parties. The people of Papua hope that the government and security forces can swiftly address the KKB threat so that security conditions can return to normal. This incident also highlights the importance of cooperation between security forces and the community in maintaining stability and safety in conflict-prone areas.
Handling the KKB is indeed no easy task. Various approaches, both military and diplomatic, are continually pursued to end the violence in the region. On the other hand, local residents are also expected to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The shooting of the Smart Air plane serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and security in every aviation activity in Papua. The pilot and crew deserve commendation for their bravery and professionalism in handling the emergency situation. With support from all parties, it is hoped that Papua can soon be free from the KKB threat and return to being a safe and peaceful region.
In the latest developments, security forces continue to conduct operations to follow up on this incident. Tight security at the airport and other strategic areas has been increased to prevent a recurrence. “We will continue to ensure the safety of flights and the security of this region,” Faizal concluded.
The situation in Central Papua illustrates the complexity of the challenges faced in maintaining security in conflict areas. However, with good cooperation between the government, security forces, and the community, it is hoped that peace and security can once again be achieved in Papua.
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Source: Kompas.
