Phillip Mehrtens, a New Zealand pilot abducted by separatist rebels in Indonesia’s Papua region, has been released after 19 months in captivity. Mehrtens, who was taken hostage in February 2023 while working at a remote airstrip in Paro, Papua, is now confirmed to be safe, according to the New Zealand government.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed his relief at the news, stating, “We are pleased and relieved to confirm that Phillip Mehrtens is safe and well and has been able to speak with his family.” Peters added that this news is a huge relief for his loved ones.
The Foreign Minister also highlighted the extensive efforts made by both New Zealand and Indonesian authorities over the past 19 months to secure Mehrtens’ release. A wide range of government agencies collaborated, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade leading efforts from both Indonesia and Wellington to support the family throughout the ordeal.
Mehrtens, a pilot for Indonesian aviation company Susi Air, was abducted by the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, after landing his single-engine plane in Paro. The rebels had released five indigenous Papuan passengers from the flight, but kept Mehrtens captive.
In February 2023, the separatists had released images of Mehrtens surrounded by armed fighters, though he appeared uninjured. His release brings a resolution to a lengthy and complex hostage situation in Indonesia’s restive Papua region.
