Jakarta, IO – Susi Air pilot Philips Max Marthin and several passengers are being held hostage by the Free Papua Organization (OPM) separatist group, led by Egianus Kogoya. The plane was set on fire after it landed at Paro Airport, Nduga regency, Papua Highlands province, Tuesday (7/2).
Papua Police spokesperson Ignatius Benny Prabowo confirmed that a joint team and the Cartenz Damai Task Force are still conducting an investigation, which is hampered by poor communication access in the area. In addition, there is no TNI or Polri unit stationed in the area, reported CNN Indonesia, Wednesday (8/2).
Meanwhile, Military Command XVII/Cenderawasih Maj. Gen. M. Saleh Mustafa confirmed that the pilot’s and passengers’ whereabouts are still unknown.
Read: Susi Air pilot and passengers taken hostage by TPNPB-OPM
The plane with flight number PK-BVY was carrying five passengers from Timika to Paro. They are identified as Demanus Gwijangge, Minda Gwijangge, Pelenus Gwijangge, Meita Gwijangge and Wetina W. (un)