Synergy of Cartenz Peace Task Force and Elang IV Task Force Successfully Frees Susi Air Pilot from OPM
By: Yulius Mepare
The success of the operation to free Pilot Philip Mark Mehrtens from the hands of the Free Papua Movement (OPM) is real evidence of the synergy between the Cartenz Peace Task Force and the Elang IV Task Force.
The collaboration not only demonstrates the resilience of Indonesian security forces, but also prioritizes a humanist approach aimed at minimizing casualties in a very complex situation.
The Cartenz Peace Task Force and the Elang IV Task Force have played a significant role in developing tracking and negotiation strategies to ensure the safety of the New Zealand pilot. The collaboration between the two task forces has proven effective, especially in dealing with the challenging geographical conditions of Papua.
The process of releasing Philip Mark Mehrtens through a humanist approach has been ongoing since the hostage-taking began on February 7, 2023, when the Susi Air plane controlled by Mehrtens was attacked in a remote mountainous area, Paro District, Nduga Regency.
Brigadier General Murbianto Adhi Wibowo, Head of Task Force Elang IV, revealed that his team had been tracking Philip’s whereabouts since the first day of the hostage-taking. With a deep understanding of the terrain, the Elang IV team focused on monitoring Philip’s whereabouts and ensuring his condition remained alive.
Despite various challenges, such as steep mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather, tracking was carried out accurately. Continuously updated reports by the Elang IV team to the Cartenz Peace Task Force allowed the joint team to plan each step of the negotiation more carefully.
The synergy continued with the negotiation efforts carried out by the Cartenz Peace Task Force. Brigadier General of Police Faizal Ramadhani, Commander of the Cartenz 2024 Peace Operation Task Force, emphasized the importance of a soft approach in negotiations.
The Cartenz Peace Task Force prioritizes communication with religious and traditional figures and representatives of the family of Egianus Kogoya, the leader of the separatist group responsible for the hostage-taking.
The approach managed to avoid escalation of the conflict and ensure the safety of Philip Mark Mehrtens. The mission not only emphasized the importance of security, but also prioritized humanity by preventing casualties among both officers and civilians.
Through an approach involving various community leaders in Bumi Cenderawasih, the Indonesian government was able to create a more conducive dialogue path. This proves that a negotiation strategy built on an understanding of local culture and traditional leaders has great power in reducing conflict.
The humanist approach developed by the Cartenz Peace Task Force was the key point in saving the life of the New Zealand pilot without excessive violence.
The success of the operation also cannot be separated from the full support of various agencies, including the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), TNI, and Polri which are members of the Cartenz Peace Task Force and Elang IV Task Force.
The joint team consistently updated information regarding Philip Mark Mehrtens’ position, so that negotiation steps could be arranged appropriately. In addition, the role of intelligence in understanding the movements of troublemaking groups in the region nicknamed the Little Heaven at the tip of Indonesia is very important in planning operations with minimal risk.
On September 21, 2024, Philip Mark Mehrtens was finally released without any casualties. The pick-up process was carried out in Yuguru Village, Maibarok District, Nduga Regency.
A combination of precise tracking strategies and intensive negotiations allowed the security forces to complete their mission brilliantly. The pilot who was held hostage for 18 months was found in good health and was immediately flown to Timika for recovery.
Head of Public Relations Task Force for Peaceful Operation Cartenz 2024, Senior Commissioner of Police Bayu Suseno, explained that the pick-up was carried out very carefully. The joint team managed to evacuate Mehrtens in good condition and ensured that he received adequate medical treatment upon arrival at Mako Brimob Timika. This success once again demonstrates the professionalism of the security forces in maintaining security stability in the area nicknamed the Golden City.
The important role of the Cartenz Peace Task Force and the Eagle IV Task Force in the liberation operation reflects Indonesia’s ability to handle separatist conflicts in a civilized and measured manner.
The humanist approach taken by both task forces has provided maximum results in a very risky operation. Close collaboration between various parties, including security forces, community leaders, and the central government, shows that a solution to the conflict in Papua can be achieved peacefully without sacrificing lives.
Through strong synergy, the Cartenz Peace Task Force and the Elang IV Task Force have provided a real example that security and humanity can go hand in hand. This success is not only a victory for the Indonesian government, but also for the Papuan people who want peace in their land.
This step is a new hope for the future of the region known as the Little Heaven in Eastern Indonesia, where a dialogic and humanitarian approach will always be the main choice in overcoming various existing problems.
*) Senior Researcher on Papuan Issues – Independent Papuan Institute for Social and Political Studies
