A pilot from New Zealand, Phillip Mark Mehrtens, who had been held captive for over a year in the restive Papua region of Indonesia, was released by separatist rebels on Saturday. Mehrtens, 38, was working for Susi Air, an Indonesian aviation company, when he was abducted by rebels from a remote airport on February 7, 2023. Following his release, Mehrtens expressed gratitude to those involved in his safe return during a news conference in Timika, where he was visibly emotional when speaking with his family via video call.

The Free Papua Movement, operating in Indonesia’s Papua region, had been responsible for Mehrtens’ abduction. Negotiations led by a small task force, including communication through local church and community leaders, facilitated Mehrtens’ release without any casualties. The pilot’s family acknowledged the efforts of Indonesian authorities, specifically the police and military, for prioritizing peaceful negotiations to ensure Mehrtens’ safety during his captivity. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed that various government agencies had been involved in securing Mehrtens’ release for the past 19 1/2 months.

President Joko Widodo of Indonesia commended the military and police for their patience and efforts in securing Mehrtens’ release through persuasion and ensuring safety. There were no demands made by the separatist rebels in exchange for Mehrtens’ freedom, highlighting the importance placed on the safety of hostages. Indonesian officials officially handed over Mehrtens to New Zealand’s Ambassador to Jakarta, Kevin Burnett, upon his arrival at Jakarta’s Air Force base.

Throughout Mehrtens’ captivity, authorities worked diligently to secure his release while respecting the need for privacy for the Mehrtens family. Peters, who described Mehrtens’ return as a significant and positive development, emphasized the challenging nature of negotiating in such environments but highlighted the successful outcome that prioritized the pilot’s safety and well-being.