Papuan Police Chief Calls The Nduga Regional Government And The Church Continue To Help Free The Pilot Susi Air Hostage KKB

Susi Air Pilot Philip Mark Merthens New Zealand nationals held hostage by the KKB led by Egianus Kogoya. (Ist)

PAPUA - Papua Police Chief Inspector General Pol Mathius Fakhiri admitted that until now the Nduga Regional Government (Pemda) and the Kingmi Church have continued to help free up the New Zealandese hostages who are handling the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) led by Egianus Kogoya.

It is true, the Nduga Regional Government is still trying to negotiate with the carrier group, as well as the team from the Kingmi church.

"The Acting Regent of Nduga a few days ago reported the steps they have taken," said Papua Police Chief Inspector General Pol Fakhiri to Antara, in Jayapura, Papua, Friday, April 5.

He explained that his party would continue to make efforts to approach and negotiate to free the hostages from the KKB in a safe condition.

The involvement of the Nduga Regional Government and the church is because the carriers are residents of the area, so it is hoped that with a family approach, the process will be fast.

"Hopefully, by continuing to approach the group, both by the local government and churches, the carriers will release the hostages safely," hoped the Kapolda.

The New Zealand government has expressed its support for the steps taken to free the hostages it has taken since February 7, 2023.

Philips Max Mehrtens, who works as a pilot, was held hostage shortly after landing at the Paro airport, Nduga Regency.