Surabaya – Badan Eksekutif Mahasiswa Kristiani Seluruh Indonesia (BEM KSI) has urged the government and law enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and arrest those responsible for the shooting of a Smart Air civilian aircraft in South Papua.
The shooting of the Cessna PK-SNR aircraft occurred during its landing process at Koroway Batu Airport, Boven Digoel Regency, on Wednesday (February 11, 2026) at approximately 11:00 a.m. WIT. The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of pilot Capt. Egon Erawan and co-pilot Capt. Baskoro, while all 13 passengers were reported safe.
BEM KSI Central Coordinator Charles Gilbert stressed that the case must not stop at a preliminary investigation. He called on security forces to act swiftly, professionally, and transparently in uncovering the perpetrators and any networks involved.
“This is not merely a security incident, but a humanitarian tragedy. The state must act decisively by thoroughly investigating the case and ensuring that the perpetrators are prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Charles stated on Thursday (February 12, 2026).
The aircraft had departed from Tanah Merah Airport at 10:35 a.m. WIT on the Tanah Merah–Koroway Batu route. As it was preparing to land, it was reportedly shot at from a forested area near the airport by unidentified individuals.
BEM KSI emphasized that pioneer air routes in Papua serve as a vital lifeline for community mobility, including for healthcare workers, teachers, and logistics distribution. Therefore, a comprehensive investigation is considered crucial not only for law enforcement but also to restore a sense of security for civilians who rely heavily on air transportation.
In addition to urging the identification and arrest of the perpetrators, BEM KSI called on the government to strengthen security along civilian flight routes in high-risk areas and to provide attention and assistance to the victims’ families.
BEM KSI affirmed its commitment to closely monitor the development of the case as part of the student movement’s role in advocating for humanitarian issues and public safety.
Meanwhile, security forces under the Damai Cartenz Operation have secured the scene and carried out the evacuation process. The government has also assured that the case is being handled seriously to identify those responsible and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident is expected to serve as momentum for law enforcement authorities to resolve the case transparently and comprehensively, ensuring justice for the victims and strengthening the security of civilian aviation nationwide.
