New Zealand pilot taken HOSTAGE by Papua separatists in Indonesia

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Papua: A New Zealand pilot was taken hostage by separatist fighters in Indonesia's Papua region who later threatened to kill him. The pilot was captured after his plane was set alight when it landed in the district of Nduga. Five passengers on board the plane, including a young child, are believed to have been released, as per BBC. The pilot has been recognised as Philip Merthens.

The New Zealand government, in a statement, noted that it is aware of the situation and that its consulate in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, is doing everything to provide assistance to the pilot's family.

Notably, the separatists are demanding Indonesia recognise the independence of the province of West Papua. The West Papua National Liberation Army, which has been designated a terrorist group by Indonesia, has claimed responsibility for the act.

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A spokesperson for the group, Sebby Sambom, noted that the pilot will be 'executed' if Indonesia is 'obstinate and fails to negotiate over the independence of West Papua', reported BBC.

According to reports by the Associated Press, the Susi Air plane was carrying supplies from the mining town of Timika in the neighbouring district.

Police noted that an investigation into the incident is underway, however, it has proved to be difficult since the area can only be reached by air.

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History of Papua region

The Papua region is a former Dutch colony divided into two provinces, Papua and West Papua. It was integrated into Indonesia in 1969 following a debatable UN-supervised ballot. Since then it has become a point of contention between separatists and the Indonesian military.

Papua is separate from Papua New Guinea, which was given independence by Australia in 1975. © Provided by Times Now