Pilot in the hands of rebels in Papua for more than a year – release negotiations Four reasons for Japan’s miraculous comeback

More than a year after a New Zealand pilot was kidnapped by separatist rebels in Indonesia’s Papua province, efforts to free the hostage continue.

On February 7, 2023, West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) rebels set fire to a small plane in the remote Nduga district and kidnapped the pilot of local airline Susi Air. On Monday, New Zealand police attaché Paul Borrel met with Papua’s police chief to discuss next steps. as the authorities in the crisis province have announced.

The rebels demand Papua’s independence from Indonesia and demand that the United Nations mediate in relevant negotiations. Over the past twelve months, they have published videos and photos of their hostage several times.

The kidnapped Philip Mehrtens is apparently visible in the photos in the middle of the jungle, surrounded by indigenous people, some of whom are heavily armed. The latest video was distributed to mark the anniversary of the kidnapping. Mehrtens is seen pale and has a long beard and messy hair. ‘I’m doing well, they’re treating me well’ he said.

“I’m trying to stay positive and I hope you and Jacob are healthy and getting support.” he turned to his wife and son. He asked for asthma medicine and an e-book reader with as many English books as possible.

Indonesian police are working hard to free Mehrtens, local police chief Mathius D. Fakhiri said on Monday. A gentle approach and communication with the kidnappers would be a priority so as not to endanger the hostage’s life.

A violent liberation attempt by the army last April failed. According to the army, four soldiers were killed in the action. New Zealand Police Attaché Borrel apologized for the loss and emphasized: “We entrust the release of the pilot to the Indonesian government.”

The Indonesian-ruled Papua region in the western half of New Guinea has been the scene of separatist uprisings since the 1960s. The province was annexed into Indonesia in a United Nations-backed vote in 1969. There have been violent clashes in the resource-rich region for years. The east of the island, north of Australia, is the independent country of Papua New Guinea. (saw/sda/dpa)