More videos of Kiwi hostage Philip Mehrtens in Papua warn against Indonesian military air strikes
New Zealand pilot Philip Mehrtens was photographed with his rebel captors in Indonesia's Papua region. File pic Photo: Supplied/TPNPB
More videos appear to have been released by the West Papua Liberation Army showing Kiwi hostage Phillip Mehrtens.
The New Zealander was taken hostage more than a year ago on 7 February in Paro, Papua, while providing vital air links and supplies to remote communities.
In the recent videos he is seen surrounded by armed men and delivers a statement, saying his life is at risk because of air strikes conducted by the Indonesian military.
He asks Indonesia to cease airstrikes and for foreign governments to pressure Indonesia to not conduct any aerial bombardments.
RNZ has sought comment from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Earlier this year Foreign Minister Winston Peters strongly urged those holding Mehrtens to release him immediately without harm.
Peters said his continued detention serves no-one's interests.
In the last year, a wide range of New Zealand government agencies has been working extensively with Indonesian authorities and others towards securing Mehrtens release.
The response, led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, has also been supporting his family.
No comments:
Post a Comment