Papua Police Chief Claims Susi Air Pilot Conditions Held Hostage By KKB Healthy

Papua Police Chief Inspector General Mathius Fakhiri. (ANTARA/Evarukdijati)

JAYAPURA - Papua Police Chief Inspector General Mathius Fakhiri explained that the health condition of the New Zealand pilot Susi Air, who is still being held hostage by the KKB led by Egianus Kogoya, is in good health.

"It is true that the report received revealed that the condition of the Susi Air pilot who was held hostage since February 7, 2023 was healthy, but we are still worried about his health," said Inspector General Fakhiri, quoted by ANTARA, Friday, September 15.

Various efforts are still being made by prioritizing negotiations involving all elements including the community and family as well as the Nduga Regional Government.

"The negotiations that are still being put forward are to minimize casualties from various parties," he said.

He hopes that Egianus Kogoya will immediately release his hostages because he feels sorry for the people who are afraid and unable to carry out their normal activities.

When asked about the whereabouts of Egianus and his prisoners, the Papuan Police Chief estimated that they were in an area with food supplies.

"We estimate that the hostages are guarded by a separate group that does not move and the food supply is assisted by the community," said Inspector General Fakhiri.

"There are reports that the Acting Regent of Nduga has met Egianus Kogoya, but what has been the result of the conversation until now there has been no complete report," he added.

Pilot Phillip Mehrtens tackled the KKB led by Egianus Kogoya shortly after landing his plane in Paro, Nduga Regency, Papua Mountains which was then burned.