Papua, Indonesia – Amnesty International Indonesia has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a New Zealand pilot, Glen Malcolm Conning, in Alama District, Papua, labeling it a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
“This extrajudicial killing is a grave breach of international law,” stated Usman Hamid, Executive Director of Amnesty International Indonesia, in a written statement released on Thursday, August 8, 2024.
The tragic incident occurred on Monday, August 5, 2024, when Glen Conning was piloting a helicopter transporting civilians to Alama District. The helicopter was intercepted by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB). The group then shot Glen, leaving his body inside the helicopter, which was subsequently set on fire.
Usman Hamid underscored the critical importance of protecting civilians in conflict situations. He emphasized that deliberate attacks targeting civilians are unacceptable. “All parties involved in the prolonged conflict in Papua must refrain from civilian killings and uphold fundamental humanitarian principles,” Usman stated.
He also called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. “It is crucial that those accountable for this unlawful killing are prosecuted, and measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future,” he added.
According to information from the police, the incident began around 9:30 AM local time when Glen Malcolm Conning’s helicopter was intercepted by armed TPNPB members. The pilot and passengers were forced out of the helicopter and gathered in a field near the landing site. The TPNPB then killed the pilot and burned the helicopter along with his body. This account was provided by a witness identified as D, according to the Head of the Damai Cartenz Operations Public Relations Task Force, Commissioner Bayu Suseno.
