JAYAPURA - The TNI Habema Operations Command (Koops) deployed three helicopters to evacuate the body of the pilot of US nationality, Nicholas F Goselin (29), who was allegedly shot dead by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Balinggama, Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Mountains.
Head of Information Koops TNI Habema, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya Artadiguna, said the evacuation team had been dispatched from Timika since Friday, July 3 morning.
"The team has been flying from Timika since 06.45 WIT and hopes that the evacuation process will run safely and smoothly," said Lieutenant Colonel Inf Wirya, quoted from Antara.
According to Wirya, three helicopters were deployed to support the process of evacuating the body of the 29-year-old pilot who served at PT Associated Mission Aviation (AMA).
Based on initial information received by the TNI, Nicholas F Goselin was allegedly killed by a KKB member. However, the exact cause of death is still pending the results of the team's examination on the ground.
"The pilot of American nationality died because he was shot by KKB members, but to confirm it is still waiting for information from the team," said Wirya.
After the evacuation process is completed, the body is planned to be flown to Jayapura.
"The plan is that the body will be immediately flown to Jayapura," said Lt. Col. Inf Wirya.
In addition to shooting the pilot, KKB also reportedly burned a Pilatus PK-RCY plane belonging to PT Associated Mission Aviation shortly after landing at Balinggama Airport. The plane was flying from Wamena to Balinggama carrying seven passengers.
Koops TNI Habema said there were seven passengers on board the plane when the incident occurred. They are Eston Sobolim, Kluenang Sobolim, Toni Balingga, Elina Sobolim, Ona Sobolim, Lisenia Balingga, and Vaince Amo Hoso.
Until this news was released, there were no official reports regarding the condition of the seven passengers. Security forces are still securing the scene and supporting the evacuation process.
Security forces continue to investigate to uncover the perpetrators and ensure that the security situation around the location remains under control.
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