New Zealand Pilot Freed After 19 Months in Indonesian Rebel Captivity
New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens, who was captured by rebels in Indonesia's Papua region, has been freed after 19 months. He was rescued by a joint task force and flown to Jakarta, where he reunited with New Zealand officials and his family. His release came after diplomatic negotiations between Wellington and Jakarta.
New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens, who was captured by West Papua National Liberation Army rebels at Papua's Nduga airport on February 7, 2022, has been freed after 19 months in captivity.
A joint task force rescued Mehrtens from Nduga district on Saturday.
He was flown to Timika, then to Jakarta, where he reunited with New Zealand officials.
Mehrtens worked for Susi Air and provided vital air links in the region.
His release followed diplomatic negotiations between Wellington and Jakarta.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo confirmed the peaceful negotiations were prioritized for Mehrtens' safe release.
During his captivity, Mehrtens remained in good health as per both rebel statements and visual proofs.
He was reunited with family after months of emotionally charged sporadic appearances in videos.
A joint task force rescued Mehrtens from Nduga district on Saturday.
He was flown to Timika, then to Jakarta, where he reunited with New Zealand officials.
Mehrtens worked for Susi Air and provided vital air links in the region.
His release followed diplomatic negotiations between Wellington and Jakarta.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo confirmed the peaceful negotiations were prioritized for Mehrtens' safe release.
During his captivity, Mehrtens remained in good health as per both rebel statements and visual proofs.
He was reunited with family after months of emotionally charged sporadic appearances in videos.
