Susi Air incident in Papua

[Salusa]

It's public news now anyway

[Salusa]

On another note, across the border PNG forces mounted a successful rescue operation for NZ hostage and locals. Well done MS and DF PNG.

[Massey058]

Just wanted to re-up this thread after the latest release of information. OPM sent out photos and videos from the 6th of March and Phil seems in remarkably good condition all things considered.

One of the videos is a reply to a video sent by the NZ officials. He makes a pertinent comment about chasing up salaries owed. Another makes it clear that OPM don't want foreign pilots flying around Papua.

I understand the pressures a lot and I know what it's like to deal with Susi but it's madness for Susi Air pilots to still be flying around Papua currently.

[Climbpowder]

whats the current situation so far with him?

[Salusa]

Failed "rescue attempt" but seems more like an attack on security forces in the area.

News

[Petropavlovsk]

As of this week commencin 17th April, the following:

Indonesian Soldiers Killed During Search For Kidnapped Pilot

By
Russ Niles
-
Published:April 16, 2023
0


An unknown number of Indonesian soldiers were killed and as many as 30 are missing after Papuan rebels attacked them during their search for a kidnapped New Zealand pilot. Phillip Mehrtens was taken by gunmen after he landed his Susi Air plane at a remote strip in the rebel held area of the country in February. His aircraft was set on fire. The Indonesian Army says it sent 36 troops to try to rescue the pilot but members of the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, apparently ambushed them. The Associated Press is reporting that at least six soldiers died, nine were taken by the rebels and 21 dispersed in the jungle but the army is only confirming one dead and the rebels say nine were killed.

Shortly after Mehrtens was taken, the rebels demanded Indonesia allow West Papua to become independent. The Indonesians wanted to send in troops to attempt a rescue at the time but New Zealand officials intervened and convinced them to abandon the attempt. Sebby Sambom, a spokesman for the rebels, said in a statement the attack was revenge for the killing of two rebels in a shootout with Indonesian soldiers last month. He claimed his group has tried to negotiate with Indonesian and New Zealand but has received no response. The rebels regularly post photos of the young pilot, who appears to be in good health.

[lucille]

“The rebels regularly post photos of the young pilot, who appears to be in good health”




“Young pilot”? Good grief, he’s 37! He’s 15 years past being young,

[Petropavlovsk]

On 14th April 2023, Cessna Cravan PK-LTF of Asia One Air, was shot at during landing and sustained damage.

more details at: Incident Cessna 208B Grand Caravan PK-LTF, 14 Apr 2023 (aviation-safety.net)

[Pinky the pilot]

was shot at during landing and sustained damage.

Obviously the shooter was a better shot than the mob of Raskols who opened up on me when I took off from Baimaru one time after droppping off a heap of armed Constabulary.

They missed completely! Something for which I'm still rather thankful.

[Salusa]

Originally Posted by Petropavlovsk

On 14th April 2023, Cessna Cravan PK-LTF of Asia One Air, was shot at during landing and sustained damage.

more details at: Incident Cessna 208B Grand Caravan PK-LTF, 14 Apr 2023 (aviation-safety.net)

Several rounds on approach. At least one made contact.

[Pinky the pilot]

Salusa, That looks very much like an entrance hole from a round fired from below. Where was the exit hole?

[Capt Fathom]

Actually, there is something sticking out of that hole… if you zoom in. Was that caused by an internal failure?

[Duck Pilot]

Originally Posted by Capt Fathom

Actually, there is something sticking out of that hole… if you zoom in. Was that caused by an internal failure?

No, it’s the arrow head😀

They are also excellent with a bow and arrow at long range in that neck of the woods.

Like the Kuka Kukas over the border!

[megan]

I'd say this is the entry hole and photo above is the exit.

[Rotor Work]

Update from ABC

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-...tens/102565742

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo will visit the far-eastern province of Papua this week after flagging his government is working to secure the release of a New Zealand pilot detained for five months.

[Salusa]

As we come to the end of the year lets not all forget Phil Mehrtens.

Still hostage.

[nomess]

I hope the new Kiwi government can make headway soon. I worry for his health in such regions, as many on here who know the areas, I can’t imagine one remaining in good health living in such conditions for x years.

[Track5milefinal]

Imagine if it was a US citizen out there, I'm almost certain this poor bloke would NOT still be held captive. Kiwi government has to grow some Kahuna's, what have they done thus far,... stopped exporting feta to Indonesia ?? ruthless government

[Cedrik]

You work in such places and take personal responsibility, you can't expect any government to bail you out. Look at the Oz gov Smart traveller on what they say about travel in remote Indonesia.

[Mach E Avelli]

Originally Posted by Cedrik

You work in such places and take personal responsibility, you can't expect any government to bail you out. Look at the Oz gov Smart traveller on what they say about travel in remote Indonesia.

People like pilots, merchant sailors, journalists etc often get to fly into dodgy places. It comes with the job. They are not stupid, irresponsible tourists, for whom much of the smart traveller advice is written. Are you saying that if an Aussie crew transiting some sh!thole country got thrown in jail or were taken hostage, our government shouldn't make noises to get them out?
Having said that, I don't think we should make any effort on behalf of those who do bad things to the locals, like drugs, kiddie fiddling etc.
Phil was helping to provide an essential service in a country where they need good bush pilots. Local politics should not be using him as some sort of bargaining chip. No matter what one thinks of the rights, or otherwise, of their dispute with the Indons, the rebels aren't likely to garner any sympathy for their actions.