An Indonesian military commander says a 'law enforcement operation' was being prepared to free Philip Mehrtens if talks with the Papuan separatist group fail.
abc.net.au/news/philip-mehrtens-indonesia-hostage-operation/101987582An Indonesian military commander in its restive Papua region said a "law enforcement operation" was being prepared to free a New Zealand pilot held hostage by separatists, but only as a last resort if negotiations failed.
Mr Mehrtens, a Susi Air pilot, was abducted by the West Papua National Liberation Army last week after landing in the remote region of Nduga. A spokesperson for the TPNPB shared photographs and videos of Mr Mehrtens on Wednesday surrounded by about a dozen fighters, some armed with guns and bows.
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