Jayapura – The Chief of the Papua Regional Police (Kapolda) Inspector General of Police Mathius Fakhiri emphasized that efforts to free the New Zealand hostages from the hands of the Armed Criminal Group are continuing.
He explained in more detail that his party would continue to try and not cause casualties, both civilians and hostages.
“That’s why various approaches are being taken, especially through prominent figures so as not to cause casualties,” said the regional police chief in Jayapura, Saturday (4/3) as quoted by Antara.
This was deliberately done by the KKB so that if the security forces act decisively and cause casualties they will be declared a human rights violation.
“Hopefully the release can be carried out immediately without any casualties,” hoped Kapolda Faakhiri.
According to him, based on reports received, the position of the New Zealand hostage, who works as a Susi Air pilot, continues to move around.
The presence of pilot Philip Mark Merthens was not with Egianus Kogoya who led the burning of an airplane belonging to Susi Air in Paro, Nduga Regency.
“What is certain is that both the hostages and the KKB led by Egianus Kogoya are no longer in Nduga Regency,” said Fakhiri.
The KKB led by Egianus Kogoya, Tuesday (7/2), set fire to a plane belonging to Susi Air piloted by Philip Mark Merthens in Paro, Nduga Regency, and took the pilot hostage.