Indonesian Authorities Review OPM’s Initiative for New Zealand Pilot’s Freedom

JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian Cartenz Peace Task Force is actively examining a proposal issued by the Free Papua Organization (OPM), led by Egianus Kogoya, concerning the release of Philip Mark Mehrtens, a pilot for Susi Air.

Mehrtens has been held captive for over a year in the Papua region, an area plagued by ongoing conflict between the Indonesian government and separatist groups.

Senior Commissioner Police Bayu Suseno, the spokesperson for the Cartenz Peace Operation 2024, revealed that the proposal was published on September 17, 2024.

It designates facilitators for mediating the pilot’s release and indicates OPM’s willingness to engage in dialogue regarding the situation.

According to Suseno, the proposal aims to respond to various demands raised by different stakeholders, reflecting a shift in OPM’s approach.

“It is essential for us to review this proposal to ensure it represents a genuine effort to secure the pilot’s freedom,” he stated, underlining the importance of verifying its authenticity.

Philip Mark Mehrtens was abducted on February 7, 2023, shortly after his plane made an emergency landing in the remote highlands of Papua. The OPM claimed responsibility for the abduction, citing their goal of gaining international attention for their independence struggle. Since then, the pilot’s situation has become a focal point in the ongoing discussions about human rights and autonomy in the region.

Suseno noted that OPM has previously issued similar proposals that failed to materialize into actual actions.

“We remain cautious and need to confirm that this time is different,” he explained, emphasizing the necessity of thorough examination before proceeding with any negotiations.

The task force is planning to coordinate with various stakeholders once the proposal’s authenticity is confirmed. They aim to ensure that any potential release plan is executed safely and effectively. “We are also requesting support and prayers from the community to ensure that this release plan proceeds smoothly without further setbacks from OPM,” he added.

In the meantime, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been in close communication with New Zealand authorities regarding Mehrtens’ situation.

The New Zealand government has expressed its concern and commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizen while advocating for a peaceful resolution to the hostage crisis.

Suseno expressed hope that OPM’s initiative for the pilot’s release would successfully come to fruition. He reiterated that a collaborative effort involving all relevant parties is crucial in navigating the complexities of this situation.

As the task force continues its deliberations, the eyes of both national and international communities remain focused on Papua, where the ongoing tensions highlight broader issues of governance, autonomy, and human rights in Indonesia. Damai yah guys. Damai itu indah. (Uki Ruknuddin)