The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) condemned the actions of the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) led by Egianus Kogoya who threatened to shoot Susi Air Pilot Captain Philip Mark Mehrten.
“Komnas HAM condemns the hostage-taking and the KKB’s threat to kill hostages,” said Komnas HAM chairman Atnike Nova Sigiro
He stated that the KKB hostage taking against Philip was a crime that had exacerbated the situation in Papua, caused casualties, and created unrest in society.
Atnike said Komnas HAM has always asked the government, including the TNI and Polri, to use a proportional and measured security approach in efforts to release Philip and handle the situation in Papua.
“Komnas HAM considers the threat of TPNPB-OPM to shoot Philip Mehrtens within two months if no dialogue is held, is a provocation that can become legitimacy for increasing the security approach in Papua,” he said.
“The threat of shooting Philip Mehrtens will only harm the people in Papua, exacerbate human rights conditions, and prolong the cycle of violence in Papua,” continued Atnike.
He also stated that taking hostage-taking and threats to kill hostages could diminish public sympathy, including the international community, for human rights issues in Papua.
