Inp.polri.go.id - Jayapura.  Chief of Papua Regional Police, Inspector General Mathius D. Fakhiri, acknowledged the involvement of a third party in the case of the Susi Air pilot hostage, Captain Philip Mehrtens. The third party exploits Captain Mehrtens' hostage situation for their own group and personal interests, while falsely claiming association with the Free Papua Movement, he said. "We've encountered deliberate obstruction from other parties, hindering the negotiation process and preventing it from reaching a successful conclusion," said Chief Fakhiri after a closed-door meeting with the New Zealand Police Attaché in Jayapura on Monday (26/2/24). He added that the third party intentionally raised the Free Papua issue with the New Zealand government. "This is primarily the agenda of these groups themselves, including individuals like Benny Wenda and Sebby Sembom, who consistently amplify Papua-related issues externally. We've advised them to disregard such statements," he emphasized. Furthermore, Chief  Fakhiri said that New Zealand remains committed to entrusting Captain Philips' release to the Indonesian government, the military and the police and fully recognizes Papua as an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia. He said that the military and the police continued  efforts to release the pilot. "We're continuing our collaboration with our military counterparts, employing a soft approach through negotiations involving various stakeholders, including local authorities, the Church, community leaders, and others, to facilitate Captain Philips' release," Chief Fakhiri explained. He confirmed the security authorities are aware of Captain Philips' whereabouts and his health condition. However, negotiations continue with the armed criminal group (KKB)  holding him hostage, aiming for his release without any casualties. "We're closely monitoring their location and Philips' well-being, but our goal remains his safe release without harm. This process will take time," he said. (mg/rz/pr/nm)