Synergy between 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 clear evidence of the synergy between the Cartenz Peace Task Force and Elang IV Task Force.
This collaboration not only shows the resilience of the Indonesian security forces, but also prioritizes a humanist approach that aims to minimize casualties in the midst of a very complex situation.
The Cartenz Peace Task Force and 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 freeing 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 since the first day of the hostage-taking. With a deep understanding of the terrain conditions, 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, the tracking was carried out accurately. The reports that were continuously updated by the Elang IV team to the Cartenz Peace Task Force allowed the joint team to plan each step of the negotiation more carefully.
This 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 prioritized 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.
This approach succeeded in avoiding an escalation of the conflict and ensuring the safety of Philip Mark Mehrtens. This mission not only emphasizes the importance of security, but also prioritizes humanity by preventing casualties from both the authorities 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 was also inseparable from the full support of various agencies, including the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), TNI, and Polri who 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 formulated appropriately. In addition, the role of intelligence in understanding the movements of troublemaking groups in the area 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.
The important role of the Cartenz Peace Task Force and the Elang IV Task Force in the release operation reflects Indonesia’s ability to handle separatist conflicts in a civilized and measured manner.
The humanist approach taken by the two 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 dialogical 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
