Novali Panji Nugroho, Jakarta – Head of the Indonesian Military Information Center (Kapuspen TNI), Major General Hariyanto, denied claims made by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) regarding a military-police operation to free Susi Air pilot Philip Mark Mehrtens. He asserted that no deployment of troops or special operations has been undertaken for this mission.
"To date, there have been no special military operations deployed," he told Tempo on Friday, September 20, 2024.
He acknowledged the presence of TNI-National Police (Polri) security forces in the Papua region, particularly in Nduga. However, these deployments are for purposes unrelated to the pilot's release. Their presence, he emphasized, aims to support the government's efforts in promoting development, economic growth, and improving the welfare of the local community.
"And to maintain regional stability, ensure the security of the people in their daily lives," he added.
Hariyanto reiterated that the TNI-Polri is committed to peaceful negotiations with the armed criminal group to secure the release of the New Zealand pilot, who has been held hostage since February 2023. He emphasized that the security forces prioritize peaceful efforts over military operations.
In contrast, the Spokesperson for the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Organization (TPNPB-OPM), Sebby Sambom, claimed that the TNI launched a military operation to free the Susi Air pilot. He alleged that the operation took place on Thursday, September 19, 2024, involving the deployment of troops and additional military equipment, including tanks and weapons.
Sebby said that the military operation and troop distribution were conducted by air as military helicopters were observed entering the Mbua District area of Nduga.
"From morning to evening, the Indonesian military intensified air operations in the civilian village areas from Mbua to Alguru," he said in a written statement on Friday, September 20, 2024.
Sebby urged the Indonesian government to cease all military operations in Nduga and the entire Papua region.