LiveThe separatist Papua rebel group that has kidnapped a New Zealand pilot has threatened to execute him. In an alarming statement issued on Wednesday morning, West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) spokesman Sebby Sambom said Kiwi pilot Philip Mehrtens was still alive. In a statement on social media, Mr Sambom said Mr Mehrtens was being held hostage for negotiations with Jakarta. Mr Sambom said an earlier statement they had been released before the fire. She said there was yet to be any photographic proof or evidence that Mr Mehrtens was still alive, and there had been no contact with him.

Source: Stuff February 08, 2023 17:27 UTC