Two Indonesian soldiers die during firefighting mission in Kalimantan

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Two Indonesian Army soldiers were killed after their Mi-17V5 helicopter crashed into waters off Central Kalimantan while conducting a forest and land firefighting mission, officials confirmed on Thursday (November 5).

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman expressed his deep condolences over the deaths of Lieutenant Colonel (Posthumous) Dudi Firmansyah and Captain (Posthumous) Nurhafiz Akbar.

“I express my deepest condolences for the passing of two of the nation’s finest sons who died while carrying out their duties,” Dudung said in a statement.

The helicopter, operated by the Army Aviation Center, crashed on Wednesday (November 4) in waters off Sungai Perlu Village, Danau Sembuluh District, Seruyan Regency.

According to the official chronology, the helicopter took off from Kuala Pembuang at 9:55 a.m. Western Indonesian Time (WIB). Its crew had been assigned to help extinguish fires threatening areas near Tanjung Puting National Park.

The accident occurred while the helicopter was collecting water near Sungai Perlu Village for a water-bombing operation. It reportedly encountered flight difficulties before crashing.

Search and rescue operations are underway for a third crew member, Sergeant Heri Prasetyo, who remains missing.

“We all pray that he is found soon, safe and sound,” Dudung said, urging the public to offer their support.

The Indonesian Army immediately dispatched personnel by air to prioritize emergency evacuation efforts and secure the crash site.

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Translator: Walda Marison, Yashinta Difa
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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