Kidnapping in Papua

Pilot in rebel hands: “They treat me well”

The pilot Philip Mehrtens (center) is still in the hands of rebels from the Indonesian province of Papua (archive photo).

(Bild: AP)

More than a year ago, a New Zealand pilot was kidnapped in the Indonesian province of Papua. "I'm okay, they're treating me well," said Philip Mehrtens in a video released by the rebels. He can be seen looking pale, with a long beard and disheveled hair.

"I'm trying to stay positive and I hope you and Jacob are healthy and doing well and getting support," he went on to say to his wife and son. He also asked to receive asthma medicine and an e-book reader with books in English. As reported, rebels from the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) set fire to a small airliner in the remote district of Nduga on February 7, 2023 and abducted the pilot of the local airline Susi Air.

Trying to stay positive.

Philip Mehrtens, von Rebellen entführter Pilot

Gentle approach and communication important
The rebels are demanding Papua's independence from Indonesia and want the United Nations to assist in negotiations. Over the past year, they have released videos and photos of their hostage several times. In the most recent photo, Mehrtens can apparently be seen safe and sound in the middle of the jungle, surrounded by indigenous people, some of whom are heavily armed.

Philip Mehrtens surrounded by indigenous people (archive image)

(Bild: West Papua Liberation Army/AP)

The New Zealand police attaché Paul Borrel met with the police chief of Papua today, Monday, to discuss the next steps, according to the authorities in the crisis province. The Indonesian police are working hard to free Mehrtens, they said. A gentle approach and communication with the kidnappers had priority in order not to endanger the hostage's life.

Violent rescue attempt failed
Last April, a violent liberation attempt by the military failed. Four soldiers were killed. "We entrust the release of the pilot to the Indonesian government," said Borrel and apologized for the loss.

The Indonesian-ruled region of Papua in New Guinea has been the scene of separatist uprisings since the 1960s. Violent clashes have been recurring for years. The regions are part of Indonesia, only the east of the island is the independent country of Papua New Guinea.