Boven Digoel – The Damai Cartenz-2026 Task Force, together with the General Criminal Investigation Directorate of Papua Regional Police and the Criminal Investigation Unit of Boven Digoel Police, demonstrated strong commitment and professionalism in handling the criminal shooting of Smart Air aircraft PK-SNR at Koroway Batu Airport, Yaniruma District, Boven Digoel Regency, South Papua Province, on Thursday (12/2/2026) at 09:10 WIT.
Swift measures were taken following the shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday (11/2/2026), which resulted in the deaths of pilot Egon Irawan (deceased) and co-pilot Baskoro (deceased). The joint team immediately conducted a comprehensive crime scene investigation to ensure that all facts were clearly, accurately, and professionally documented.
According to witness statements, the Smart Air aircraft had landed at approximately 10:30 WIT and was preparing to continue its flight to Dekai, Yahukimo Regency. During the engine start process, a group of perpetrators emerged and opened fire from a distance of approximately 200 meters toward the aircraft. The emergency situation was promptly addressed with security measures and the evacuation of civilians in the surrounding area.
During the crime scene investigation and reconstruction, the team identified and documented 23 key points, including the initial direction of gunfire, the aircraft’s position, 13 bullet impact points on the aircraft’s fuselage, shattered window glass, two spent shell casings and one live round found on the runway, the location where the victims were captured and executed, and the evacuation point of the bodies at the Koroway Batu Airport terminal.
The physical examination confirmed 13 bullet holes on the aircraft’s body. All evidence has been secured for further forensic examination and investigative development. Witnesses are scheduled for additional questioning at Boven Digoel Police in Tanah Merah to strengthen the case construction.
The Head of Operation Damai Cartenz-2026, Brig. Gen. Pol. Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, S.Sos., S.I.K., M.H., emphasized that the crime scene investigation was conducted thoroughly as part of the commitment to law enforcement and ensuring public safety.
“We carried out this crime scene investigation in a professional and measured manner to ensure that all evidence and facts on the ground were properly documented. This is essential to support a transparent and accountable investigation and prosecution process,” he stated.
Similarly, Deputy Head of Operation Damai Cartenz-2026, Sr. Comr. Pol. Adarma Sinaga, S.I.K., M.Hum., stated that the team successfully secured several crucial pieces of evidence that will serve as the foundation for comprehensively identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators.
The Damai Cartenz-2026 Task Force continues to monitor and reinforce security in the area. Law enforcement efforts against perpetrators of violence will be carried out firmly, professionally, and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting civilians and ensuring the safety of air transportation in South Papua.
