NZ pilot Phillip Mehrtens freed after 19-month West Papua captivity

Summarised by Centrist

New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens has been released after 19 months in captivity by West Papua rebels. Indonesian authorities prioritised negotiations, with President Joko Widodo stating, “our priority has been the safety of the pilot.” Mehrtens is reportedly in good health, undergoing medical check-ups, and will be reunited with his family soon. Foreign Minister Winston Peters called the outcome a “huge relief” for Mehrtens’ family and friends.

Read more over at RNZ