Phillip Mark Mehrtens, a New Zealand pilot, was released on September 21, 2024, after being held hostage for over a year by separatist rebels in Papua, Indonesia. The 38-year-old, who worked for Susi Air, was abducted on February 7, 2023, from a remote airport. His release marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict in Papua, a region grappling with a long-standing insurgency for independence from Indonesia.
During a press conference following his release, Mehrtens expressed immense relief and gratitude, stating, “Today I finally got out. I am so happy to be back home with my family soon.” Images showed him appearing emaciated and emotional as he connected with his family via video. After his release, he was transported to Jakarta, where he was welcomed by officials and reunited with loved ones.
New Zealand Pilot Phillip Mark Mehrtens Freed After Year-Long Hostage Crisis in Papua
The backdrop to Mehrtens’ abduction involves a complex history of Papua, which was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 under controversial circumstances. The region has witnessed increasing violence as separatist groups seek independence, particularly in the past year, resulting in numerous casualties among rebels, security forces, and civilians. The Free Papua Movement, to which his captors belong, has been involved in this struggle.
Negotiations for Mehrtens’ release were facilitated by a task force that included local church leaders and community figures. After initially asserting that they would not release him unless the Indonesian government acknowledged Papua’s sovereignty, the rebels eventually proposed terms for his release. New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, highlighted the extensive diplomatic efforts over 19 months involving various government agencies and Indonesian authorities.
Upon his return to Jakarta, Mehrtens was officially handed over to New Zealand’s ambassador, with Indonesian President Joko Widodo commending the negotiation process for prioritizing safety and avoiding repression. His release came amid ongoing tensions, including previous attacks on military personnel and other expatriates in the region, underscoring the volatility of the situation in Papua.
