New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens has been freed from captivity by rebels in Indonesia’s Papua region after 19 months, and he is reported to be in good health, according to authorities from both Indonesia and New Zealand.

Mehrtens, 38, was working for Indonesian airline Susi Air when he was abducted by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) at Nduga airport on February 7, 2022. A joint task force of police and military personnel rescued him early Saturday in a village in the Nduga district before he underwent medical and psychological evaluations and was flown to Timika.

Upon his release, Mehrtens expressed his happiness at being able to return home, thanking those who helped secure his safe return. New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed that Mehrtens was “safe and well” and had spoken with his family.

Mehrtens had been providing essential air services to remote communities at the time of his abduction. His release followed extensive diplomatic negotiations between New Zealand and Indonesia, with President Joko Widodo stating that his safety was secured through dialogue rather than force.

During his captivity, the TPNPB had threatened his life and demanded recognition of Papuan independence in exchange for his freedom. Although the rebels claimed Mehrtens was in good health, his appearance in videos over time suggested he was under significant stress.

In recent images released by Indonesian authorities, Mehrtens appeared to be in good physical condition. He grew up in Christchurch, New Zealand, and is a father. His situation highlights the ongoing tensions in Papua, where separatist movements and military presence have been a longstanding issue.