Negotiations For The Release Of Susi Air Pilots Are Still Ongoing

JAYAPURA - The fate of pilot Philip Mark Mehrtens, who was held hostage by an armed criminal group or KKB led by Egianus Kogoya since last February 7, is not yet known for sure.

Although the condition of the New Zealand pilot Susi Air is still unknown, previously there was a photo circulating showing Philip being with Egianus Kogoya and his members.

Philip is suspected of being with the KKB in the interior of Nduga Regency, Papua Mountains.

Given his geophoretic condition, Philip's efforts to release the pilot must be carried out carefully, measurably, and involve several parties who are considered to have played a role in the negotiation process.

Various efforts to free Philip to this day continue to be carried out by prioritizing negotiations involving all elements including society, families, and leaders.

"Various efforts have been made and will continue to free the pilot by prioritizing negotiations," said Pangdam XVII/Cenderawasih Major General Izak Pangemanan as reported by ANTARA, Monday, October 9.

The negotiation effort was carried out with the aim that Egianus and his group would hand over and at the same time release their hostages without causing any casualties.

The negotiation process is still being carried out by various parties who feel compelled to a sense of humanity, both from community leaders, religious leaders, Komnas HAM, and their families. All these efforts are still being made.

Currently, it is 244 days since the pilot who works for the airline Susi Air has been carried out by the KKB, precisely since February 7, 2023. Philipdisandera after the armed group set fire to the plane he piloted shortly after landing at Paro Airport.

Although it has been 244 days since the photos in circulation did not appear a significant change in Philip's physique.

"From the various photos circulating, it appears that there has been no significant change, even Philip's body condition is stable and his face doesn't look stressed," said TNI Major General Izak Pangemanan.

From the photos circulating, it can be seen that the hostages are not thin, look healthy, wear neat clothes, and only their eyes imply a different spotlight.

However, various steps continue to be taken by the TNI-Polri including local governments.

"The negotiation process continues and it is certain that there will be no military operation in the effort to release hostages," said Major General Izak.

Papua Police Chief Inspector General Mathius Fakhiri emphasized that negotiations to free the New Zealand hostage must be carried out within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.

It is always emphasized that when negotiating the release of hostages, they should not discuss two main issues, namely independence and weapons and ammunition.

Discussion towards Philip's release must rule out the two issues. The main focus of the effort is so that the hostages can be released immediately in good health.

Currently, the Papuan Police are still waiting for a report from the Acting Regent of Nduga regarding the results of the meeting with the Egianus group which previously stated that they would help release him.

Currently, the Regional Police are still waiting for the results and reports regarding the negotiations on the release of pilot Philip, who has been held hostage for 8 months and separated from his relatives.

The police also invited figures, especially those from Nduga Regency to help with the release of hostages.

The hope is that with the involvement of all parties, the release of hostages can be realized soon.