New Zealand pilot kidnapped
Indonesian security forces are searching remote West Papua after a New Zealand pilot was kidnapped.
The West Papua National Liberation Army said they took pilot Philip Mehrtens.
The Susi Air plane he landed was set on fire.
All passengers were released as they were all local Papuans.
It was likely a targeted kidnapping of a foreigner to gain exposure.
Also Susi Air’s founder is a prominent Indonesian political figure.
It happened in Paro, Nduga regency.
“Telecommunication access there is very limited, so there is very little information,” said Papua Police spokesperson Benny Prabowo.
Separatist groups have waged a years-long struggle for independence.
The New Zealand Embassy is providing consular support to the pilot’s family.
Read Full StoryHave your say Cancel reply
Subscribe/Login to Travel Mole Newsletter
Travel Mole Newsletter is a subscriber only travel trade news publication. If you are receiving this message, simply enter your email address to sign in or register if you are not. In order to display the B2B travel content that meets your business needs, we need to know who are and what are your business needs. ITR is free to our subscribers.
































France prepares for a massive strike across all transports on September 18
Turkish tourism stalls due to soaring prices for accommodation and food
CCS Insight: eSIMs ready to take the travel world by storm
Germany new European Entry/Exit System limited to a single airport on October 12, 2025
Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt