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New Zealand pilot kidnapped
Friday, 09 Feb, 2023
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Indonesian security forces are searching remote West Papua after a New Zealand pilot was kidnapped.
The West Papua National Liberation Army said they took pilot Philip Mehrtens.
The Susi Air plane he landed was set on fire.
All passengers were released as they were all local Papuans.
It was likely a targeted kidnapping of a foreigner to gain exposure.
Also Susi Air’s founder is a prominent Indonesian political figure.
It happened in Paro, Nduga regency.
“Telecommunication access there is very limited, so there is very little information,” said Papua Police spokesperson Benny Prabowo.
Separatist groups have waged a years-long struggle for independence.
The New Zealand Embassy is providing consular support to the pilot’s family.
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