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ABC News
ABC News
National

Rebel gunmen attack Indonesian troops searching for New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens, leaving dozens missing

United Nations Indonesia New Zealand Papua Sebby Sambom

At least six people are dead and 30 more missing after separatist gunmen attacked Indonesian army troops deployed to rescue a New Zealand pilot taken hostage in Papua, according to reports.

Initial information from army reports said there were about 36 soldiers at a post in the district of Nduga, searching for Phillip Mark Mehrtens.

The New Zealand pilot, working for the Indonesian aviation company Susi Air, was abducted by the rebels in February.

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