Mimika. The Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force confirmed that Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand pilot for Intan Angkasa Air Service, was killed by an armed criminal group (KKB) upon landing in Alama District, Mimika Regency, Central Papua, on Monday.

According to Faizal Ramadhani, Head of the Cartenz Task Force, the 50-year-old pilot was assaulted, and his body was burned along with the MD500 ER PK-IWN helicopter he had flown.

"There was a hostage-taking and murder carried out by the KKB against Mr. Glen Malcolm Conning, the helicopter pilot for Intan Angkasa Air Service," Ramadhani said. However, the motives remain unclear.

Initially, the helicopter piloted by Conning was transporting healthcare workers along with an infant and children, departing from the Mozes Kilangin Timika Airport hangar to Alama District at 9:30 a.m. local time.

Upon arrival, they were intercepted by the KKB. The pilot and passengers were forced out of the helicopter and gathered around the landing site.

"The KKB then proceeded to murder the pilot. His body was taken to the helicopter and burned along with the aircraft," explained Bayu Suseno, Head of Public Relations for the Cartenz Task Force.

Bayu assured that all passengers were safe. "All passengers are safe as they are local residents of Alama District," he confirmed.

The helicopter was carrying six passengers, consisting of four adults and two children: Kolariak (adult), Hasmaya (adult), Demianus (adult), Ferni (child), Naomi (adult), and Hafidan (child).