After over a year and a half in captivity, New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens has been released by insurgents in West Papua. Mehrtens, who was working for Indonesian airline Susi Air, was taken by rebels at Nduga airport last year. He was handed over to the Cartenz Peace Taskforce, a security force dealing with separatist groups, and is reported to be in good health after medical checks.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed Mehrtens’ safety and well-being, bringing relief to his family and friends. Mehrtens was detained by rebels from the TPNPB insurgent group while providing essential air links and supplies to remote communities.
The release of Mehrtens followed intensive diplomatic efforts by both Wellington and Jakarta, with rebels demanding Indonesian recognition of Papuan independence for his freedom. This news highlights the complex issues in the region of West Papua and the challenges faced by those working to provide assistance to its communities.