Jakarta, IO – Nduga acting regent Edison Gwijangge is negotiating the release of Susi Air pilot Mark Marthens who is held hostage by Papua armed criminal group (KKB) led by Egianus Kogoya. This was confirmed by Cartenz Peace Task Force spokesperson AKBP Bayu Suseno in Jayapura, per Republika, Fri (2/2).
Bayu further revealed that Edison still has a familial relationship with Kogoya. The government has attempted to free the pilot since February 7, 2023 by prioritizing a persuasive approach. Previously, KKB allowed Mark’s wife to be reunited with him in Nduga, but this was rejected by the authorities as they fear that she would also be held captive.
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New Zealand national Mark Marthens was captured by KKB shortly after he landed at Paro airfield, Nduga regency, Highland Papua province on February 7, 2023. His plane was torched before he was taken away by the rebel militant group. (at)