inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said that the release of Susi Air Pilot, Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens, from being held hostage by the Armed Criminal Group was a very long negotiation process. The negotiation was carried out without any repressive action.

"This is a very long negotiation process and we are committed to not do it repressively," explained the President at the Merdeka Palace, Central Jakarta, on Saturday (9/21/2024).

For the release, the President also appreciated the military and police for their hard work and dedication to the effort.

"What we prioritize is the safety of the pilot who was taken hostage. So, the long process that has been carried out by the military and the police I think is very good, I really appreciate it," said President Jokowi.

After being released, said President Jokowi, Captain Phillip will go to the hospital to have his health checked. Furthermore, he will be flown to his home country in New Zealand.

Previously, after the pick-up process, Captain Phillip himself had been taken to a special room for first aid and psychological checks to ensure his good mental health after the hostage-taking.

After 1.5 years, Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens was finally free from being held hostage by Egianus Kogoya group. This release took place on Saturday and was a moment full of emotion and happiness for Captain Philip's wife who was in Bali.

Still in disbelief and full of emotion, Captain Philip called his wife and family. When he heard the voices and saw the faces of his loved ones, his initial tense expression slowly changed to happiness, Captain Philip shed a happy tear.

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