The Majelis Rakyat Papua (MRP) has strongly condemned the shooting of a Smart Air pilot and co-pilot by an armed criminal group (KKB) in Boven Digoel, South Papua, on February 11, 2026. The attack, carried out by 20 KKB members, was criticized for violating human rights. MRP also highlighted related attacks in other areas on the same day.
The Majelis Rakyat Papua (MRP) has condemned the shooting of a Smart Air pilot and co-pilot in Boven Digoel, South Papua, carried out by an armed criminal group (KKB) on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The attack occurred at Karowai Airport as the plane, flight number PK-SNR, was preparing to continue to Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, around 10:30 WIT.
MRP Deputy Chairman II Max Ohee stated, "From a human rights perspective, it is an unjustifiable action, and we strongly condemn the KKB's shooting of the Smart Air pilot and co-pilot." Ohee added that the attack violates humanitarian values. "This is a serious violation of humanitarian values. We tighten this action," he said.
According to Brigjen Pol Faizal Rahmadani, Operations Commander of Satgas Damai Cartenz, the attack was conducted by 20 KKB members from the Kanibal and Semut Merah groups led by Elkius Kobak from Yahukimo. They emerged from an accommodation near the airport and fired at the plane, causing passengers and crew to flee. Crime scene processing revealed 13 bullet holes on the plane's body and 23 other markings. The KKB then chased and shot the two crew members, who died; their bodies have been buried in their respective hometowns.
MRP also condemned the shooting of a civilian water tanker driver in Yahukimo Regency on the same day, as well as the shooting of a TNI member in Mimika Regency on Thursday, February 12, 2026, which resulted in one TNI death. Ohee explained that security forces and airlines are present to serve communities in remote areas. "So actually, they are not enemies. Thus, the KKB's shooting of civilians and security personnel is inhumane," he said. MRP supports security efforts to protect the public and urges residents to maintain security. Satgas Damai Cartenz is pursuing the perpetrators for law enforcement. Witnesses stated the attackers are not local Korowai residents.
