JAYAPURA- Ondoafi Besar Skow, Yambe Abisai Rollo, expressed his appreciation to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the police, and local leaders in Nduga Regency for their successful efforts in securing the release of Pilot Philip Mark Martens.
“I commend the TNI and Police for their excellent work in ensuring the safe release of Pilot Mark Martens through peaceful means,” said Yambe Abisai on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
Rollo also acknowledged the crucial roles played by Indigenous and religious leaders, as well as the local government in Nduga, who were directly involved in the release negotiations.
In addition, he extended his gratitude to the people of Nduga and all parties involved in the negotiations that led to the safe return of the New Zealand pilot.
“We are also thankful to the armed group led by Egianus Kogoya for returning Pilot Mark Martens out of humanitarian concerns,” he stated.
“I believe there is no need for further debate on the release of Philip Mark Martens. We should be grateful to God that he is back safely, without harm,” he added.
Rollo expressed hope that the safe return of Martens would bring a new era of peace in Papua and signal a safer future for the region.
While acknowledging that some separatist groups still operate in the forests, he expressed optimism that, in time, they would return to the fold of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).
“I believe we must continue preventive outreach to help them leave the forests and reintegrate into the NKRI, living together in Papua, a land blessed by God,” Rollo concluded.
