A Papuan rebel group has released photos and videos of a New Zealand pilot they took hostage. According to the so-called West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), the man is in good health.
Phillip Mark Mehrtens, 37, was abducted last week in the Indonesian province of Papua. TPNPB said it would not be released until the Indonesian government recognizes Papua’s independence. But Indonesia is not planning this.
A video released by the separatists shows the rebels setting the plane on fire. Images of Mehrtens were also sent to the international media today.
It shows him surrounded by men armed with firearms, bows, arrows, and spears. “Indonesia must recognize that Papua is independent,” says the pilot.
It is unknown when the photos and videos were taken. “As long as Indonesia doesn’t use weapons, it’s safe with me,” a TPNPB spokesperson told the AP.
a bullshit
Indonesian officials say they are doing everything they can to keep Mehrtens safe. Negotiations are ongoing, but the government is not ruling out “other options”. What the rebels demand is out of the question for Jakarta. “Papua will always remain a part of the Republic of Indonesia,” said Minister Mohammad Mahfud.
The provinces of Papua and West Papua have witnessed violence between rebels and Indonesian soldiers for decades. After a relatively quiet period, violence has recently flared up. The war between the two sides also costs civilian casualties.
In 1969, the territory, a former Dutch colony, was given to Indonesia. But the referendum that led to it is seen as a farce in the international arena. Many Papuans feel disadvantaged and some continue to strive for independence.
Extrajudicial executions
UN human rights experts sounded alarm last year over the situation in the disadvantaged province. There have been allegations of massive extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and torture by Indonesian security forces.
“Fast action is needed to stop human rights abuses against Indigenous Papuans,” one UN expert said. Indonesia denies these allegations. The government considers TPNPB a terrorist organization.
Source: NOS
Karen Clayton is a seasoned journalist and author at The Nation Update, with a focus on world news and current events. She has a background in international relations, which gives her a deep understanding of the political, economic and social factors that shape the global landscape. She writes about a wide range of topics, including conflicts, political upheavals, and economic trends, as well as humanitarian crisis and human rights issues.
