Jakarta, IO – Commander of Regional Military Command (Kodam) XVII/Cenderawasih Maj. Gen. Izak Pangemanan said the request for medicines and books by Susi Air pilot Philip Mark Mehrtens who is being held captive by separatist group Free Papua Movement (OPM) have been delivered by the local residents sent by acting regent of Nduga and well received by him.
The package was delivered by helicopter which landed in Yuguru district. “The medicines were provided because the New Zealand hostage suffers from asthma,” said Izak, per Detikcom, Friday (16/2).
When asked about the condition of the hostages, Izak said from the reports received he is safe and sound. Efforts to free Philip is still being carried out Nduga administration by prioritizing negotiations.
Read: God Bless Park, The Charm Of A Park With A Praying Hands Statue In Manado
“Hopefully, with continued negotiations, the KKB [armed criminal group] will release the hostages safely,” said Izak.
Philip Mark Mehrtens was kidnapped by a rebel group led by Egianus Kogoya shortly after he landed at Paro Airport on February 7, 2023. (at)