Inp.polri.go.id - Jayapura. Senior Superintendent Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, the Head of the Damai Cartenz Operations, expressed his hope for the safe release of Philip Mark Mehrtens, a Susi Air pilot, currently being held captive by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Papua. "We genuinely hope that the hostage, currently in the custody of the KKB led by Egianus Kogoya, can be released soon, considering the ongoing efforts, particularly the negotiations being conducted by the Nduga administration," he said in a statement on Friday (12/1/2024). He acknowledged that the efforts to free the hostage, who has been held since 7 February 2023, pose a significant challenge. However, with the support of all parties involved, including the local administration, it is anticipated that Philip, a Susi Air pilot, will be released soon. "Hopefully, this hostage situation can be resolved in 2024," Chief Faizal remarked. He elaborated that the current focus of the Task Force is primarily on enforcing the law against the KKB and political criminal groups (KKP) in Papua. This strategy aims to maintain stability, security, and public order across the four provinces in Papua. "Given the extension of the Damai Cartenz Task Force's operations until December 2024, we are not only enforcing the law but also engaging in community outreach and development. Additionally, we are conducting detection activities to support law enforcement efforts," Chief Faizal explained. He specified that the operational targets include the provinces of Central Papua and Papua Highlands, with a particular focus on nine districts: Bintang Mountains, Yahukimo, Mimika, Intan Jaya, Dogiyai, Puncak, Nduga, Jaya Wijaya, and Jayapura. (mg/ri/pr/nm)