New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens has been released after being held captive for over 18 months in Indonesia's Papua region. The pilot expressed his gratitude at a press conference in Timika, Indonesia, stating that he is very happy to be going home.
Mehrtens was kidnapped by an armed faction of the West Papua National Liberation Army on February 7, 2023, after landing a small commercial plane in the remote area of Nduga. The captors aimed to pressure New Zealand to support Papua's secession from Indonesia, a demand deemed unattainable.
Winston Peters, New Zealand's foreign minister, confirmed Mehrtens' safety and well-being, acknowledging the relief felt by his family and friends. The government's efforts, both in Indonesia and Wellington, played a crucial role in securing Mehrtens' release.
The armed group, led by Egianus Kogeya, a member of the TPNPB, had threatened to harm Mehrtens unless their secession plea was met. The TPNPB is recognized as a terrorist organization by the Indonesian government and has a history of using hostages to advance their cause.
Papua, a region with abundant natural resources, became part of Indonesia following a disputed referendum in 1969. Advocates for Papuan independence argue that the referendum was not conducted fairly.
During his captivity, Mehrtens appeared in videos looking increasingly frail and disheveled, often surrounded by armed fighters. His release marks the end of a challenging ordeal and a hopeful return to his loved ones.
