Kiwi pilot Philip Mehrtens who has been taken hostage by Separatist fighters in Indonesia's Papua region has appeared in a video pleading for his life.
The 37-year-old pilot, who had been flying in the area on a routine mission, was kidnapped by the West Papua National Liberation Army after landing his plane in the region.
Five local passengers who were onboard the aircraft were later released according to ABC News.
Reports indicate that Mehrtens was seized by Separatist rebels who are seeking independence for the Papua region, which they view as being under Indonesian occupation.
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In the video, which has been widely circulated on social media, Mehrtens can be seen pleading for his life while laying out the demands of the Separatist fighters.
He claims that his life is in danger unless their demands are met.
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This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by foreign nationals in Papua, which has long been a hotbed of separatist movements and insurgencies.
The Indonesian government has been struggling to maintain stability in the region and has faced criticism from human rights groups over its handling of the conflict.
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