13 Dead in Helicopter Crash Near Malaysia Border

Samarinda, East Kalimantan province (Antara) - An Indonesian Military Force (TNI) helicopter crashed in Malinau district, North Kalimantan Province, near the Indonesia-Malaysia border on Saturday morning, reportedly killing 13 people. "According to early information received from Malinau district police, 13 of the 19 passengers on board have died, while six are safe," spokesman for East Kalimantan Province Police Senior Commisioner Fajar Setiawan said here. The M17 helicopter carrying military personnel, civilians and 1,800 kg of logistical supplies for the development of a border post in a remote area in Malinau left for Tarakan city, North Kalimantan, at 9.45 in the morning. It lost contact with the base after passing Bako Hulu sub-district at around 10.30 am. The search and rescue team found the downed helicopter in a field near the border area between Malinau district and Serawak (Malaysia). (*)