Release Of Susi Air Pilot Involving Religious, Community And Traditional Leaders

Pilot Philip Mark Mehrtens (left) along with a number of members of the TNI, Saturday, September 21 (photo: dock. between)

Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Hadi Tjahjanto claimed that there was no request or requirement from the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) behind the release of pilot Susi Air, Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens.

The release process is said to be the result of the hard work of the TNI-Polri by means of a soft approach approach.

"Nothing, nothing they asked for, we just approach persuasively," Hadi told reporters, Saturday, September 21.

soft approach efforts made with an approach through religious leaders, church leaders, traditional leaders and close family members of Egianus Kogoya.

This aims to minimize the loss of life, especially the safety of Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens.

"However, in the negotiation process I need to convey, that the involvement, involvement of traditional leaders, involvement of community leaders, involvement of the church, all of them greatly affect this release process," he said.

Currently, Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens has been handed over to representatives of the New Zealand Embassy.

The handover was made after the Susi Air pilot underwent a medical examination to ensure his health.

"I represent the Indonesian government. I have officially handed over Captain Pilot Philip Martin to the New Zealand Government represented by the New Zealand Ambassador in Jakarta, namely Mr. Kevin," said Hadi.

For information, Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens has been held hostage by the KKB led by Egianus Kogoya since February 7, 2023. Various efforts have been made to release him.

Until finally, Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens was released on Saturday, September 21. The release was after the Cartenz 2024 Peace Task Force negotiated with the KKB.