CheckPapuaNow.com – The Ministry of Transportation, through the Office of Airport Authority Region X Merauke, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, has confirmed a shooting incident involving a Wings Air PK-WJT ATR 72-600 aircraft on Saturday (2/17) around 04:17 UTC by an Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Highlands Province.
While the incident resulted in one passenger sustaining minor injuries from cabin debris, airport authorities have taken swift action to address the situation.
“We have conducted sweeps with the assistance of the Task Force, TNI, and local police. We will issue cautionary advisories and intensify monitoring posts,” emphasized Asep K. Samapta, Head of Airport Authority Region X Merauke, in Merauke.
According to Asep, the chronology of events indicates that at 04:02 UTC, Aviation Security (Avsec) patrol officers had inspected the runway and were on standby. The Wings Air PK-WJT aircraft landed at Nop Goliat Dekai Airport at 04:17 UTC. Upon parking the aircraft, bullet marks were discovered on the left side of the rear door of the aircraft.
Following further inspection, the PK-WJT aircraft was flown back to Mozes Kilangin Timika Airport and landed safely at 09:09 UTC or 18:09 WIT.
In response to the incident, Director General of Civil Aviation M. Kristi Endah Murni stated that directives had been issued to airlines operating in the jurisdiction of Airport Authority Region X Merauke to enhance vigilance.
“I urge airlines, especially those operating on routes prone to security and flight safety disturbances, to remain vigilant and cautious, and to enhance coordination with all stakeholders before deciding to fly,” she said.
Furthermore, Kristi emphasized the importance of conducting Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) more meticulously and coordinating intensively with Airport Operator Unit Heads (UPBU), Airnav Indonesia, and local security authorities to ensure flight safety, security, and comfort.
While this Wings Air incident is alarming, it serves as a reminder for all involved parties to enhance aviation security and safety measures in the region. The Ministry of Transportation is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to prevent similar incidents in the future and uphold the integrity and security of Indonesia’s aviation sector.
Read also: Concerns Rise Over Year-long Hostage Situation of Susi Air Pilot in Papua
Source: Ministry of Transportation
