New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens has been freed after being kidnapped for over 19 months in Indonesia’s Papua. He was picked up by a joint team in the Nduga area and is currently undergoing health and psychological check-ups in Timika regency. The faction of the West Papua National Liberation Army led by Egianus Kogoya was responsible for his kidnapping in February 2023. President Joko Widodo emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of the pilot throughout the negotiation process. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed relief at Mehrtens’ safe return and confirmed that he has been able to speak with his family. Various New Zealand government agencies had been working with Indonesian authorities to secure Mehrtens’ release. Indonesian authorities, including Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, used a peaceful approach involving religious and traditional leaders to ensure a safe resolution. A press conference regarding Mehrtens’ release is planned for later. This incident follows the tragic death of another New Zealand pilot, Glen Malcolm Conning, who was killed by separatist rebels in Papua in August after landing his helicopter in a remote area.
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New Zealand pilot released from captivity in Indonesia’s Papua after 19 months
