NZ pilot Philip Mehrtens freed from captivity in West Papua

New Zealand aviator Phillip Mehrtens has finally been released after being held captive for over 1 1/2 years in West Papua, Indonesia. The Indonesian police made the announcement in a statement over the weekend.

“We are taking a strategic approach by engaging with religious leaders, church figures, traditional leaders, and the close family of Egianus Kogoya to ensure the safety of the pilot and minimize any potential harm,” stated Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, the chief of Cartenz 2024 Peace Operations.

Mehrtens has been rescued and is currently undergoing medical assessments and psychological evaluations in Timika regency after being picked up by a joint team in Nduga Regency, according to the police.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed his relief at Mehrtens’ release, stating, “We are delighted to hear that Phillip Mehrtens is safe and sound and has been able to communicate with his family. This news will bring immense relief to his friends and family.”

Peters also commended the collaborative efforts of various government agencies and Indonesian authorities in securing Mehrtens’ release over the past 19 and a half months. He emphasized the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s dedicated support for Mehrtens and his family throughout this challenging time.

Furthermore, Peters appreciated the cooperation and restraint exhibited by numerous media outlets regarding this case, acknowledging the request for privacy made by the Mehrtens family.

The West Papua National Liberation Army’s armed faction had abducted Phillip Mehrtens in February last year following his landing of a small commercial aircraft in a remote, mountainous region.

Indonesia’s approach to resolving the situation has involved dialogue with religious and community leaders to facilitate the pilot’s safe return, given the perilous nature of conducting a military operation in the rugged highlands.

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