Jayapura- New Zealand’s Prime Minister (PM), Chris Hipkins, asked for the immediate release of Susi Air pilot Philip Mehrtens who was being held hostage in Papua. Philip was taken hostage six months ago.
“Philip is a father, husband, brother and son,” said Hipkins in Auckland, Wednesday (9/8).
“I urge, once again, that those holding Philip hostage be immediately released. There is absolutely no justification for being taken hostage,” he explained.
“The longer Philip is held captive, the greater the risk to his well-being and the more difficult it will be for him and his family,” he continued.
Hipkins added, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs will lead the rapid response efforts to release Philip. They will cooperate with the authorities in Indonesia.
Hipkins added, last week he contacted Philip’s family. He ensured that the government would make every effort to free Philip.
“I admit this is a big challenge for them. Philip’s safety and welfare remains our priority,” he said.
Philip disappeared at the Nduga airport, Papua Mountains Province, last February. The incident began when the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) attacked the Yonif R 321/GT TNI Task Force on duty in the Mugi-Mam area, Nduga Regency.
