6 Months of Pilot Susi Air Hostage by KKB, Papua Chief Reveals Obstacles to Philip’s Release

Jayapura – Papua Police Chief Inspector General Pol Mathius Fakhiri acknowledged that the location of the armed criminal group (KKB) that took the Susi Air pilot as hostage was in an area that was very difficult to reach.

“KKB leader Egianus Kogoya also frequently moved hostage locations in the Nduga and Lanny Jaya areas so it was difficult for members to approach the location, moreover the KKB also always guarded hostages,” he said in Jayapura Friday (11/8/2023).

Efforts to release the hostages still prioritize negotiations by providing space for community, religious and family leaders to approach Egianus so that they want to release the hostages safely. As is known, Susi Air Pilot Philip Mark Merthens has been held hostage since February 7, shortly after landing his plane in Paro, Nduga Regency, Papua Mountains.

From the information received, it was revealed that the Nduga Regent official had met with Egianus, but the outcome of the discussion is still awaiting information.

“We are still waiting for further information regarding the talks being held with the Egianus group,” said Fahiri.

He hoped that Egianus would immediately release the hostages in good health and be safe, no less.