Jakarta. The Indonesian military (TNI) deployed three helicopters on Friday to evacuate the body of an American pilot believed to have been shot dead by an armed group in Yahukimo, Highland Papua.

Lt. Col. Inf. Wirya Artadiguna, spokesperson for the TNI Habema Operational Command, said the evacuation team departed from Timika at 6:45 a.m. local time.

"The team has been airborne from Timika since 6:45 a.m. local time, and we hope the evacuation proceeds safely and smoothly," Wirya said.

The victim was identified as 29-year-old Nicholas F. Goselin, an American pilot working for Associated Mission Aviation (AMA).

Preliminary information indicates Goselin was shot by members of an armed criminal group (KKB). However, authorities said the exact cause of death has yet to be confirmed pending findings from the team on the ground.

"The American pilot is believed to have been shot by KKB members, but confirmation is still pending information from the team at the scene," Wirya said.

His body will be flown to Jayapura after the evacuation is completed, according to Wirya.

The military said the attackers also set fire to the Pilatus PK-RCY aircraft operated by AMA shortly after it landed at Balinggama Airstrip in Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency.

The aircraft had flown from Wamena carrying seven passengers: Eston Sobolim, Kluenang Sobolim, Toni Balingga, Elina Sobolim, Ona Sobolim, Lisenia Balingga, and Vaince Amo Hoso.

Authorities have not released official information on the condition of the seven passengers.

Security forces remain at the scene to secure the area, assist with the evacuation, and investigate the attack while maintaining order around the airstrip.